The Faculty of Theology, through the Department of Fundamental and Dogmatic Theology, and the Għaqda Studenti tat-Teoloġija, extended an esteemed invitation to Filipino Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle to deliver the distinguished Aquinas Lecture on Wednesday 8 May 2024.
This year’s lecture surpassed all expectations with an attendance of over 700 individuals. Speaking on the theme ‘Proclaiming the Good News by a Church which goes forth’ at the Auditorium of the General House of the Society of Christian Doctrine in Blata l-Bajda, Cardinal Tagle reflected on the Church’s role in nurturing hope and solidarity among humanity. The inspirational lecture can be viewed online.
Continuing his engagement, on Thursday 9 May 2024, Cardinal Tagle paid an official visit to the Rector of the University of Malta. The visit included a stimulating question-and-answer session with academic staff and students in the University Council Room.
Throughout his three-day sojourn in Malta, Cardinal Tagle interacted with various segments of Maltese society, including the Filipino community. He also urged the Faculty of Theology to continue advocating for the integral good of humanity within the University sphere and to forge partnerships with diverse academic disciplines for the betterment of both the University and Maltese society. His profound words and compassionate demeanour left an indelible mark on all who encountered him during his visit.
Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle studied in the Philippines and earned his doctorate in the United States of America. Before being appointed Bishop in 2001, he lectured in Theology in Tagaytay and Manila, Philippines, served as a member of the International Theological Commission, and sat on the editorial board of the ‘History of Vatican II’ project. Presently, he serves as Pro-Prefect of the Section for the First Evangelization and New Particular Churches within the Dicastery for Evangelisation and is often cited as a potential future Pope.