Around the Community

The event will take place September 20-21 (Friday-Saturday) at the University of St. Thomas. The event starts at 7:30PM on Friday with a panel discussion on this topic that will include speakers Nick Stokman, John Houston, and Jacob Solawetz. On Saturday, a walk-through exhibit will be open from 10AM - 5PM, with a break at 12:30PM for a discussion on AI and religious art with Julian Ahlquist and Fr. Timothy Sandquist. 

Archdiocese Event Page: Link

Description: 

With the ever-growing integration of generative artificial intelligence (AI) services into the fabric of society, it’s no wonder the very definition of our humanity and how we learn, work, and create is being reimagined. Standing in front of this modern technology that seems to blur the lines of human and machine, we find ourselves asking, how it is possible to grow in our humanity?  The event invites visitors to explore these questions through panel discussions with AI experts and creatives, along with a guided walk-through exhibit that delves into the background, impact, and opportunities of this emerging technology. You’re invited to experience generative AI hands on, learn about its use in everyday work and artistic expression, while at the same time understanding its limitations and “hallucinations” and ultimately how AI can serve as a tool to understand what it means to be human.

Register for Event

Navigating the Extremes of Human Experience according to Biblical Sages – September 13

How do we find meaning in our lives? Is it a calculus of joy and sorrow, of victory and defeat? What is worth dying for? These deep questions lie just below the surface of our daily experience and can crop up when we least expect them. How we address these questions of meaning can make all the difference as to whether we are happy or sorrowful. How do I handle disappointment? How do I keep my elation over significant accomplishments in perspective?  Maintaining balance in our lives as we strive to know and love God and our neighbor requires ongoing attention in the confidence that God is accompanying, guiding, and strengthening us.  We will focus on Psalm 90 and Ecclesiastes 12 to better understand what it means to “gain wisdom of heart” in the limited number of years granted to us on this earth.

September 13, presentation from 9am -1pm, Emmaus Hall, Saint John's University, Collegeville. Free event. Synchronous. Registration is required: www. theologyday.com, 320-363-3560 or theologyday@csbsju.edu.

Spirituality, Beer, and the Monastic Tradition – September 20

Beer has shaped societies and continues to evolve in response to changing societal values and environmental changes. Looking at the cultural, religious, and ecological dimensions of beer brewing, spanning millennia and continents, Brother Denys will explore various cultures, roles and practices related to beer. This fascinating exploration starts with the Sumerians, highlighting the Goddess Ninkasi and the ancient roots of brewing, to the Middle Ages focusing on Christian monastic traditions and the crucial role beer played in monastic life, to the 19th century discussing the temperance movements in Minnesota and Pennsylvania and the response from German Benedictine brewing traditions. Lastly, we turn to contemporary times, examining modern monastic breweries in Europe and the United States that continue the legacy of ecological stewardship, emphasizing sustainability and responsible practices in brewing.

September 20, presentation from 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Emmaus Hall – Saint John’s University, Collegeville, MN. Synchronous*. Free event. Registration is required: www.theologyday.com, 320-363-3560 or theologyday@csbsju.edu.

Ave Maria Academy, in Maple Grove, is seeking a joyful Catholic Preschool teacher’s aide, and a First grade teacher’s aide to join our team. This is an hourly, part-time position 7:30am-1:00pm, perfect for someone who loves working with children and is excited to support Catholic education. This position follows our school calendar with student days off and summers too! Please see our website for more information avemariaacademy.org , or reach out to Ave Maria Academy Principal, Ericka Walz at e.walz@avemariaacademy.org . We look forward to meeting you. Thank you and God bless you."
We are also seeking a part-time art teacher to teach K-8 Thursdays and Fridays from 7:30-1:00.

Holy Spirit Academy is now enrolling 9th-12th grade, for the '24-'25 school year. Discover the difference in academic and moral excellence! Learn about our integrated curriculum, art program, sports, and clubs. Schedule a shadow day for your student or a parent tour! Financial aid and scholarship opportunities are available. Visit holyspiritacademy.org or call 763-220-2402.