Date: September 17, 2024 Time: 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM St. Francis Center

Each academic year, Briar Cliff University's Theology Department hosts the Ruth Agnes Ahlers Lecture, to continue the good work of its namesake through contemplating the University's Catholic and Franciscan intellectual heritage in order that we may, as a community, better live out our mission and identity. This year's Ahlers Lecturer is the Rev. Dr. Nicholas Denysenko.

Nicholas Denysenko serves as Emil and Elfriede Jochum Professor and Chair and concurrently as professor of theology at Valparaiso University. Denysenko writes and speaks on diverse topics, and specializes in liturgical theology, religion in Ukraine, and Orthodox Christianity. His most recent work explores the religious dimension of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, titled “The Church’s Unholy War: Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine and Orthodoxy” (Cascade Books, 2023).

Sr. Ruth Agnes Ahlers, OSF, (1917-2006), in whose name we host this event, was Professor and Professor Emerita of Theology at Briar Cliff University from 1967-2000. Trained in theology during the pivotal years on the cusp of Vatican II, Sr. Ahlers helped Briar Cliff and the Sioux City Diocese receive the theological developments of the council, and was known for her passionate devotion to the Eucharist, and for placing a strong emphasis on the role that worship plays in our formation and flourishing. 

This event is free and open to all students, faculty, staff, and the broader Siouxland community.