Henry Widdicombe

What did you get your undergraduate degree in?

I earned my Bachelor of Arts, magna cum laude, majoring in Philosophy with minors in Catholic Studies, History, and Religious Studies from Gonzaga University in Spokane, WA and graduated in May of 2020.

What is your current field of study? 

I am currently pursuing the Master of Theological Studies, concentrating in Systematics.

What are your particular interests within your field? 

I am interested in sacramental theology, particularly how worshiping in common in-forms ecclesial identity and how the rites and liturgies of the Roman Catholic Church can be better inculturated into the local contexts in which they are celebrated. Additionally, I am invested in the thought and works of the Canadian Jesuit philosopher-theologian, Bernard Lonergan.

Why did you choose to come to the SOT? 

I chose to come to Saint John's because I felt that it was best equipped to prepare me both personally and academically for doctoral level studies in Theology. The faculty are world-class and the learning enviornment is personal and collegial.

What is your favorite spot on campus?

My favorite spot on campus has got to be the Arboretum. It’s accessible year round and gives the campus such a unique feel that is hard to encapsulate in words—to be located in the midst of such natural beauty is a great privilege and is, far and away, one of my favorite non-academic aspects of this community.

What is your favorite Benedictine Value that you see lived out at the SOT?

I think that the School of Theology does a fantastic job of living the value of hospitality. I moved to Collegeville from Spokane in the middle of the summer of ’21 and I have, from the very beginning, felt welcomed as an equal member of the community. The faculty and staff of the school, my peers, and the wider university community have made me feel very much at home.

What advice would you give students considering enrolling at the SOT? 

My advice to prospective students would be to come and visit, talk to students and professors, walk around the campus, explore the Arboretum, etc. I really struggled over my admissions decision but if I had come to the campus, my decision would have been clear

What are your goals after graduation?

In the fall of ’22 I’ll start applying to PhD programs and, God willing, after graduation, start in on my doctoral level studies!