Catholic leaders in St. Paul discuss intersection of faith, leadership

Two Catholic leaders of the prominent universities in St. Paul joined the Practicing Catholic radio show with Patrick Conley to discuss faith and leadership. Image: Jonathan Velasquez|Unsplash

Rob Vischer, president of the University of St. Thomas, and Fr. Joseph Taphorn, president of Saint Paul Seminary School of Divinity, joined Patrick Conley in a "Practicing Catholic" radio show to talk about how faith and leadership intersect.

The Catholic Spirit reported that the two Catholic leaders believe that they must set an example of hard work and efficiency in whatever they do.

Discussing Intersection of Faith, Leadership

As the new president of the University of St. Thomas, Vischer said that to foster the growth of each student's vocation, it is necessary to enhance the quality of the student experience. This includes the integration of faith and reason, the stretching of students, and equipping necessary aid.

In a recent interview with Patrick Conley on the "Practicing Catholic" radio show, Father Taphorn of Saint Paul Seminary School of Divinity has expressed gratitude for his position, noting that the seminary's schedule provides ample time for him to care for his own spiritual needs.

Furthermore, he stated that one must provide a good example by prioritizing one's spiritual growth while emphasizing the spiritual development of others who will soon be entering the ministry.

According to The Catholic Spirit, Taphorn and Vischer revealed that a Catholic leader should be someone who can discern, listen to God's voice, and be confident in the path they are walking on.

For Vischer, today's youth are taught that their value is based on their actions, and Catholic educators have a responsibility to help their people grapple with this message.

Furthermore, per the report, he stressed the importance of demonstrating productivity and being impressive all the time.

About University of St. Thomas

The University of St. Thomas, located in St. Paul, Minnesota, was established in 1885 as a Roman Catholic institution of higher learning. With over 10,000 undergraduate and graduate students and over 110,000 graduates, it is Minnesota's biggest private institution.

As stated on its website, the University of St. Thomas aims to shape leaders to further the common good, drawing inspiration from the Catholic intellectual tradition.

The University of St. Thomas has a solid commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion because of its strong Catholic background. The website said that the university wants to be known as one that welcomes everyone with open arms and is determined to make that dream a reality.

About The Saint Paul Seminary School of Divinity

James J. Hill, a wealthy Methodist in Minnesota, granted the construction of and funding for The Saint Paul Seminary to the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis over 125 years ago.

Today, seminarians, diaconate candidates, lay ministers, Catholic school leaders, and clergy can all find a supportive community at Saint Paul Seminary.

According to its website, students learn to be humble, kind, and courageous leaders through their training in servant leadership. They have the foresight and focus on making tough decisions with care.

It also stated that they raise Catholics rooted in tradition and familiar with the sacraments, passing on the full deposit of faith in an age of relativism.