Franciscan University to host panel on discernment and vocation for Formation Monday
Franciscan University of Steubenville will hold a special Formation Monday event on April 20, featuring a panel discussion focused on discernment, vocation, dating, spiritual growth, and recognizing God’s voice. The event is scheduled to begin at 7:00 p.m. and is open to students in person while also being livestreamed for the public via the University’s YouTube channel.
The panel aims to provide practical guidance for students as they navigate decisions about their faith and future. Moderated by Jake Khym, dean of Human and Spiritual Formation at Franciscan University, the session invites both in-person and online attendees to participate in a live question-and-answer segment.
Khym said, “Every student at Franciscan is on a journey of discovering who they are as a son or daughter of God, what it means to be a disciple of Jesus, and how God is specifically calling each to live out his or her unique identity.” He continued, “Since these things matter deeply for thriving and experiencing true joy, we wanted to bring in some well-known men and women from various walks of life to help our students recognize and trust the voice of God so they can answer his call.”
Panelists include Father Matt Wheeler from the Archdiocese of Los Angeles; Sister Patricia Young from the Apostles of the Sacred Heart of Jesus; Mari Wagner, co-founder of West Coast Catholic; and Dr. Matt Breuninger, psychologist and author. They will share perspectives representing priesthood, religious life, marriage and family life, as well as professional counseling.
Formation Monday is part of an ongoing initiative by Franciscan University’s Office of Franciscan Life aimed at supporting personal development through sessions held throughout the academic year. Khym said,“Formation is happening all the time whether we realize it or not. It’s a part of being human,” adding that intentional formation efforts are central at Franciscan: “Our mission is to educate, evangelize, and send forth joyful disciples in the power of the Holy Spirit.”
Franciscan University integrates Catholic values such as spiritual formation with academics according to its official website. The university offers more than 80 undergraduate and graduate programs grounded in Catholic traditions according to its official website.
Located on a hilltop campus overlooking Steubenville,the university operates as a private Catholic institution offering higher education programs.It achieved university status in 1980 after introducing graduate degrees like an MBA.Its stated aim is educating disciples who serve God worldwide.
