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Professor Joshua Hinchie, S.J., philosophy instructor and co-director of Catholic Studies Faith Formation for two and a half years, will leave Loyola New Orleans to pursue theology studies for the next three years toward being ordained as a Jesuit priest. He talks a bit about his experience at Loyola New Orleans: “At Loyola, I’ve found a really friendly and home-like place, that’s small and a bit more casual than I’m used to. I’ve enjoyed teaching half-time and doing Catholic Studies programming the other half. I get to have conversations about the big questions – with students who have Catholic faith and who have none – and to pursue truth together. "

He says his work in Catholic Studies at Loyola has been energizing as he works with students who want Catholic formation, who are seeking ways to grow spiritually, morally, and in their friendships, and who want to live out their faith. He says it’s a joy to accompany them and see how they’ve grown. “When they are freshmen or sophomores, they might be a bit naive or goofy; they may attend events, but it’s not clear if they’re getting it. But now, I see Juniors and Seniors who have grown in their prayer life, as leaders, and in their friendships." 

Professor Hinchie says a challenge he faced when he first came to Loyola was to inspire students to come to Mass. A Tuesday night Mass at 5:30 p.m. might have a few students, but never many. Now, a handful of students will attend Sunday at 9 p.m. and also attend at 7 a.m., and noon on weekdays. He says the core group is living out their faith, taking ownership. 

When asked what has ultimately attracted more students to Catholic Studies and Mass, Professor Hinchie laughs and says, “Free food!” But adds, “Students have been able to find good faith formation and strong examples of Christian life. For example, many of the young women in our program have been especially inspired and formed by Catholic Studies Coordinator, Bree Higginbotham.” “Also,” he adds, “many students don’t have a particular goal or mission, but they enjoy being with others who are involved in something that matters, that speaks to their deepest commitments." "And finally," Joshua says, “There’s not a lot of Catholic programming or courses available at Loyola, but today’s Catholic Studies program is filling the gap.” He says that the relationship between Campus Ministry and Catholic Studies at Loyola enjoys tremendous synergy and that Catholic students’ needs are particularly served today. 

Best of luck to Professor Hinchie as he progresses to the next steps in his own formation!