Roncalli Catholic Schools Announces “Learning on the Journey”
Winter Theology Series
 
MANITOWOC, Wis., ‑ Roncalli High School is pleased to host its annual Learning on the Journey winter theology series, beginning Tuesday, January 6, at 6:00 p.m. Roncalli High School (2000 Mirro Drive). This thought-provoking series on Catholic faith, practices, and perspectives is open to all members of the community — and admission is free.
 
What to Expect
Each Tuesday evening from January 6 through February 10, participants will explore a rich variety of topics guided by distinguished presenters from Roncalli Catholic Schools and beyond. The sessions run from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m., followed by a social with light refreshments. Attendees may join for any number of sessions — no registration is required, though it's appreciated.
 
For families who wish to attend but need childcare, child care services will be available with a week’s advance notice so Roncalli can coordinate sufficient volunteers. To register for child care, please email theology@roncallicatholicschools.org to reserve your spot.
 
Featured Presenters & Topics
The 2025 series is presented by Roncalli High School and is supported by the Catholic Foundation for the Diocese of Green Bay, Inc. Highlights of the winter lineup include:
 
Tuesday, Jan. 6

• The Infancy Gospel of Thomas and the Holy Family — Fr. Dave Beaudry will offer new insights into Mary and Joseph’s early years through an unexpected text.
• St. John Henry Newman — Dr. Paul Schweigl dives into the life and legacy of the newest Doctor of the Church.
• Mary: Our Model of Discipleship — Taylor Geiger explores how Mary’s “yes” to God offers a guide for our faith journey.
• Marriage – Catholic Sacrament, Vocation of Love — Dianne Vadney reflects on the beauty and challenges of marriage as a vocation and spiritual calling.

 
Tuesday, Jan. 13

• The Parables of Jesus — Fr. Nicholas Stellpflug unpacks why Jesus loved using parables and what they teach us.
• Early Christian Heresies — Dr. Schweigl traces how early theological debates shaped the Church.
• Introduction to the Gospel According to St. Matthew — Taylor Geiger explores the structure, themes, and impact of this foundational Gospel.
• Holy Spirit: Converter of Hearts — Callie Hynek leads a session on how the Holy Spirit works in our lives, drawing on iconography and Scripture.

 
Tuesday, Jan. 20

• Martha or Mary and the Confession of Faith (John 11:1–5) — Fr. Beaudry will examine ancient manuscripts and how they inform our understanding of faith.
• The Story of Joseph, Son of Jacob — Dr. Schweigl retells Joseph’s biblical journey, exploring themes of suffering, forgiveness, and Providence.
• A Mosaic of Saints — Dianne Vadney reflects on the inspiring lives of holy men and women across Christian history.
• A Walkthrough of the Sermon on the Mount — Callie Hynek guides a reflection on Matthew 5–7 and its radical implications for discipleship.

 
Tuesday, Jan. 27

• Celebration and Offering in the Mass — Fr. Stellpflug examines the Eucharistic prayer and the nature of the Mass as a communal celebration.
• St. Augustine — Dr. Schweigl introduces one of the most influential theologians in Church history.
• Introduction to Christian Prayer — Taylor Geiger explores how to build a meaningful prayer life tailored to where we are in life.
• Forgiveness and Healing — Dianne Vadney offers pastoral wisdom on reconciliation, healing, and mercy.

 
Tuesday, Feb. 3

• The Sacrament of Reconciliation: Not Just for Lent Anymore — Fr. Beaudry helps demystify confession, repentance, and forgiveness.
• Samwise Gamgee: Coming Home — Dr. Janine McIlheran uses The Lord of the Rings to reflect on homecoming, virtue, and moral anchoring.
• St. Antony the Great and the Wisdom of the Desert — Dr. Schweigl draws spiritual insight from early monastic life.
• Passing on Faith in Our Families — Dianne Vadney shares practical wisdom for handing down faith through generations.

 
Tuesday, Feb. 10

• Understanding the Prophets — Fr. Stellpflug explores Old Testament prophets and their relevance for today.
• How Science Points to a God Who Knows You by Name — Michelle Bishop weaves together science and theology to reflect on God’s personal care.
• Cities and Maps of the Gospels — Dianne Vadney invites participants into the geographical and spiritual journey of the Gospel writers.
• On the Incarnation — Taylor Geiger examines On the Incarnation by St. Athanasius and its profound Christological insights

 
Why This Matters
At Roncalli Catholic Schools, we see education not just as academic formation, but as spiritual formation. The Learning on the Journey theology series is part of our broader mission to engage not only students, but families and the community, in meaningful dialogue about faith, belief, and living as disciples. This program reflects Roncalli’s commitment to lifelong learning and to making theology accessible, relevant, and grounded in Catholic tradition.
 
How to Participate

• Where: Roncalli High School, 2000 Mirro Drive, Manitowoc
• When: Tuesdays, January 6 through February 10, 6–7 p.m., followed by a social
• Cost: Free and open to the public
• Website: rhs.roncallicatholicschools.org/wintertheology
• Child Care: Available with one week’s notice
• Contact: (920) 682-8801 or theology@roncallicatholicschools.org to register or reserve child care