Building Bridges: Dialogue in an Age of Polarization

Join us September 21, 22 and 23 – 7 p.m.

Sophomore Residence Halls – Cabrini Campus

Pope Leo has underscored the need for dialogue as a means of building bridges between peoples and nations. In his first words as Pope, spoken from the balcony of St. Peter’s, he asked all people “to build bridges through dialogue and encounter, joining together as one people, always at peace.”  

The importance of dialogue between individuals who have different opinions and perspectives is mentioned as well in the Pope’s recent document, Magnifica Humanitas: “It is clear that there are many ideological and practical differences among people, as well as differing interests and frequent disagreements, but that does not mean it is impossible to engage in dialogue to establish a set of basic agreements that enable the creation of a shared vision, upon which everyone can move forward together.” (n. 62).

In light of this call, the Mother Cabrini Institute on Immigration, the Dr. Terry Nance Center for Dialogue, and the Office of Resident Life are sponsoring a series of “dialogues” around the issue of immigration in our country. We are aware that this is an issue that divides Americans. We are aware of the passionate arguments on the many diverse sides of the immigration debate. It is for this reason that we think the Pope’s call is an invitation to us all to reach out and promote a dialogue on this very issue.

This program will be initiated in three student residences on the Cabrini Campus and is directed towards Villanova sophomore students residing there. The dates for the first round of the dialogues are: Monday, September 21, Tuesday, September 22 and Wednesday, September 23, each at 7 p.m.  Each session is the same, so if you want to participate, you only attend one.

They will take place in the Xavier Hall Lounge, Francesca Hall First Floor Lounge and Josephine Hall First Floor Classroom.

The program begins with a short welcome and introduction of the theme by the Cabrini Institute. Then the Nance Center guides the dialogue process so that we all contribute our own “light” without adding to the “heat” around the theme. Finally, Resident Life is offering food to finish the evening celebrating our mutual search for truth (Veritas), in community (Unitas) and with respect for all (Caritas).

Prior registration is required so we can determine the need for dialogue leaders and the food requirements. Notice to sign up will be given soon by the Nance Center.