Paluch Lecture – Spring 2025

On February 13, 2025, Dr. Harold D. Horell, the Margaret and Chester Paluch Chair of Theology at the University of Saint Mary of the Lake (USML), delivered an inspiring lecture titled Holistic Formation in Christian Faith: Catholic Education for Belonging, Believing, Becoming, and Beyonding.

A cornerstone of Catholic intellectual engagement, the annual Paluch Lecture gathered a diverse audience of educators, theologians, and community members on the USML campus.

Dr. Horell explored how individuals can intentionally engage in ongoing faith formation and how theological educators can foster a more comprehensive approach to religious education. He introduced the “4Bs” framework—Belonging, Believing, Becoming, and Beyonding—a holistic model designed to inspire spiritual growth and deeper faith integration.

His lecture emphasized cultivating a sense of belonging within the Church and society, embracing core beliefs that shape one’s life, and fostering personal growth within a faith community. These foundational elements ultimately lead to beyonding—a forward-looking vision of the Church’s mission to consecrate the world to Christ and work toward the fulfillment of God’s Kingdom.

Dr. Horell’s insights resonated deeply with attendees, offering practical guidance for personal faith development and inspiring educators to adopt a more holistic approach to religious formation.

About the Paluch Lecture
Established in 1990, the Paluch Lecture is a prestigious event that fosters theological studies at Mundelein Seminary. It brings together scholars, theologians, and the faithful to explore the depths of Catholic theology. The Paluch Lecture continues to be a significant event in the Catholic intellectual landscape, fostering dialogue, scholarly exchange, and a deeper understanding of the Catholic faith.

About USML
USML educates and forms lay leaders and priests to serve the Church and its people. It has over 1,000 lay students and 100 seminarians from 30 dioceses. USML’s faculty are recognized as leaders in their fields, sought-after speakers, and members of pontifical academies, councils, and the International Theological Commission.