Catholic Theologian to Discuss the Ways Humans Meditate

The Rev. Dr. Thomas A. Baima, a Catholic theologian, author, frequent public speaker and leader in interfaith understanding, will speak on “Varieties of Meditation: East and West,” at a free public lecture, 7:30 p.m., Thursday, March 15, Kenilworth Union Church, 211 Kenilworth Ave., Kenilworth.

Rev. Baima is the vice rector of academic affairs and dean of the graduate school of theology at the University of Saint Mary on the Lake, Mundelein. A full professor in the department of systematic theology, Rev. Baima teaches in the areas of ecclesiology, ecumenism, interreligious dialogue and mission.

Ecclesiology is the study of the theological understanding of the Christian church.  Ecumenism is the pursuit of greater religious unity or cooperation.

Prior to joining the full-time faculty at Mundelein, Rev. Baima taught ecclesiology on the adjunct faculty of Seattle University’s school of theology and ministry. He is the former ecumenical officer of the archdiocese of Chicago and former trustee of the Council for a Parliament of the World’s Religions.

He is the author of several books, including, “Understanding Four Views on the Lord’s Supper,” in which he co-authored a conversation with three Evangelical professors on the meaning of Holy Communion.  He has contributed to four other books in the area of interreligious dialogue.  His next book on Catholic/Jewish dialogue in Chicago is in press.

Rev. Baima did his undergraduate studies in philosophy and religion at Butler University.  His seminary and graduate studies were completed at the University of Saint Mary of the Lake. His post-graduate work in ecumenical studies was at the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas in Rome. 

Kenilworth Union Church is the oldest nondenominational Christian church in the United States and was an early pioneer in the ecumenical movement.  For more information, contact the church at 847-251-4272 or visit www.kuc.org.