A special reading of poetry by Rev. Thomas Fitzpatrick, S.J., titled "The Dream of God: Words of Hope in the Chaos," took place on Wednesday, Oct. 19 2022, at the DiMenna-Nyselius Library. The multimedia room was filled with community members, many of whom were familiar with Father Tom's work as a Spiritual Director, as well as University staff, faculty, students, and alumni. The reading was also live streamed and the recording is available on the University’s YouTube page. It is our hope that his words will continue to inspire more people.
Fr. Fitzpatrick came to Fairfield University nine years ago, after living and working for 20 years in the Middle East. He is well-known on campus for his transformative work in leading people through the Ignatian Spiritual Exercises. His personal writing, which looks back on a lifetime of lived spirituality on five continents across the world, is equally transformative.
Opening remarks were delivered by the Dean of the Library, Christina McGowan, and novelist, poet, and Fairfield University MFA in Creative Writing faculty member Karen Osborn. Following the reading, audience members were invited to participate in a Q&A moderated by professor of English Carol Ann Davis, director of the MFA in Creative Writing program, and professor of English Elizabeth Petrino, PhD. A wine and cheese reception followed.
The Dream of God: Words of Hope in the Chaos was co-sponsored by the Office of the President, the Office of the Provost, the Office of the Dean – College of Arts & Sciences, the Fairfield Jesuit Community, the Murphy Center for Ignatian Spirituality, the Office of Alumni Relations, and the DiMenna-Nyselius Library.
