Church History - Exploring Our Roots

Back again, Fr. Dave Heney and Rabbi Michael Lotker explore the similarities and differences in beliefs, traditions, and practices of these two ancient faiths. This is not a debate, but a clear and concise comparison of the main issues and traditions of both faiths. After each topic, we will open the floor to questions or comments.

We will trace how the Catholic faith came to the United States through diverse, complex, sometimes controversial, and often heroic missionary efforts. From its early foundations to its emergence as a national presence, Catholicism grew alongside the nation itself. As America developed, Catholics contributed significantly to its progress, and the Church remains a vital force in faith, culture, and society today. (The Seminary is located at 5012 Seminary Rd, Camarillo, CA 93012)

Our over 2000-year history has seen amazing, extraordinary, and fascinating people doing spectacular things. Fr. Shea has a captivating storytelling style to make all these events and people come alive. Come and hear more of the lesser well-known but true facts and figures in our remarkable Church history.

Our over 2000-year history has seen amazing, extraordinary, and fascinating people doing spectacular things. Fr. Shea has a captivating storytelling style to make all these events and people come alive. Come and hear more of the lesser well-known but true facts and figures in our remarkable Church history.

Christianity’s impact on the world has been profound. The Catholic Church made much of that happen! No other institution has had this much effect. We have changed marriage and families, improved care of the sick, preserved ancient culture, shaped education, and enabled the scientific revolution. Let’s go on a wide-ranging journey through our own history.

Learn about four of the so-called “knighted orders” of the Roman Catholic Church: Malta, Holy Sepulchre, Lazarus, and St. Gregory. You will also see and visit with knights and dames of these four orders in uniform during this presentation.

“Reading the signs of the times” as Vatican II calls the Church to interpret modern events and human experiences through the Gospel. As expressed in Gaudium et Spes, it invites engagement with contemporary social, political, scientific, and cultural developments in continuity with Tradition. This presentation outlines key reforms, their implementation, and the resulting vitality, challenges, and controversy within American Catholic life.