President Jonathan J. Sanford, Ph.D. | University of Dallas website

IRVING, Texas (April 23, 2024) — The Institute for Homiletics at the University of Dallas has successfully established a $7.5 million permanent endowment, thanks to the generosity of donors. This endowment, held at The Catholic Foundation in Dallas, will support the Institute's annual operating budget.

Dr. Karla Bellinger, Executive Director of the Institute, expressed gratitude for the donors, stating, "The generosity of our donors can never be underestimated. Their financial support has made this Institute possible." She also highlighted the positive impact of the Institute's ongoing formation program on parishioners, noting that the preaching has evolved from 'pretty good homilies' to 'inspirational and motivational.'

Jim Moroney, a key figure in leading the fundraising efforts, acknowledged the support of Bishop Edward J. Burns and Bishop Kelly, emphasizing their crucial roles in the initiative. Moroney recognized the donors' faith in the project, stating, "Every donor showed faith in the work when there was nothing yet to see. They knew how important it was to our Church’s future that we improve preaching in the Catholic Church."

Bishop Edward J. Burns expressed gratitude towards the donors for enabling the Institute to bring people closer to Christ through inspiring words of faith, hope, and love. Matt Kramer from The Catholic Foundation commended the Institute for its contribution to the Church and emphasized the importance of effective communication of the word of God.

University of Dallas President Jonathan J. Sanford, PhD, praised Jim Moroney for his leadership in reaching the fundraising milestone and highlighted the significant support from the Diocese of Dallas and The Catholic Foundation.

The Institute for Homiletics aims to enhance the preaching of Catholic clergy to foster a more profound encounter with the living God. The success of the Institute's programs has already started to yield positive outcomes, drawing individuals closer to their faith.

The Institute's initiatives have garnered support from various dioceses, with priests and deacons participating in the Preaching for Encounter program. The establishment of the endowment marks a significant milestone in the Institute's mission to renew liturgical preaching and inspire the Catholic community.