Fall Mission and Identity Book Club Will Read 'The Sparrow'

09/19/2024

The fall Mission and Identity Book Club selection is "The Sparrow," by Mary Doria Russell. To take part in the book club, register by Monday, Sept. 30. 

"The Sparrow" is a visionary work that combines speculative fiction with deep philosophical inquiry. The book tells the story of a charismatic Jesuit priest and linguist, Emilio Sandoz, who leads a scientific mission entrusted with a profound task: to make first contact with intelligent extraterrestrial life. The mission begins in faith, hope, and beauty, but a series of small misunderstandings brings it to a catastrophic end.

The Book Club will meet by Zoom at noon on Tuesday, Oct. 8, with, Ruben Rosario-Rodriguez, Ph.D., professor of Theology. This fall Rosario-Rodriguez is teaching an Ignite Seminar on Religion and Science Fiction.  His insights into this genre of literature will start us on our way to enjoying and appreciating our fall book.

On Tuesday, Nov. 5, at noon the Book Cub will have its closing luncheon in the Sinquefield Stateroom.  Vice President for Mission and Identity, Fr. David Suwalsky, S.J., and Patrick Cousins, Director of Pastoral Formation, will share their reflections on The Sparrow and will lead a panel discussion on the book. 

Register by Monday, Sept. 30, to receive a book for the opening session.