Wjst Statement

Personal Statement: Weston

As I grew up, my parents were constantly telling me to stop talking and listen to others who were trying to speak to me. I was naturally blessed with the gift of verbosity. It was not until I took my parents advice that I learned how to discuss matters with those around me instead of simply blurting out my opinion on a matter. When I grew older and began to attend Catholic grade school, I started to appreciate discussion as a way to defend my opinion while at the same time listen and respond to the views of those around me. Our discussions around the dinner table constantly revolved around theology. As I have continued to grow older and receive further theological education, our discussions have become significantly more in depth, often taking into account a books or articles that someone has recently read. Yet these discussions also grow in complexity as I continue to live as a Catholic in an often pluralistic, secular society. I seek to know how to live the Gospel in light of my environment, and the dinner table often becomes the forum for such discussion.

A history of such discussions also characterizes why I seek further theological education and how I plan to apply it. My sister, who is currently studying for her M.T.S., wants to change the world with her education. I do not view my goals in such grandiose terms. Instead I want to make a contribution as a layman to the ongoing discussion that takes place both in Church dialogue, as well as the academic arena. I intend to continue my studies after I receive my Master of Theological Studies and pursue a Ph.D. in theology focusing on ethics and moral theology. However I realize that in order to be qualified to pursue a Ph.D. and join such a discussion, I must have the solid foundational education that focuses not only on ethical studies, but has an enriched understanding of Biblical exegeses, Church history, doctrine and canon law, and those who led the Church and the discussions throughout its existence.

Given the studies that I must complete in order to accomplish my goals, I find Weston to be a great place