Father Dave Pivonka, TOR '89 President | Franciscan University website

Franciscan University of Steubenville has announced the launch of "In Focus," a free online video series hosted by University President Father Dave Pivonka, TOR ’89, on FaithandReason.com. The series aims to explore culture, science, politics, the arts, and current issues through the lens of reason and faith.

The inaugural series features author Noelle Mering discussing how Catholics can understand and confront woke ideology. Based on Mering’s book "Awake, Not Woke: A Christian Response to the Cult of Progressive Ideology," this seven-part series titled “Confronting a Woke World” examines the origins and nature of the woke movement, strategies for Catholics to counter it, and ways to navigate relationships with those who have adopted wokeism.

“I can think of no one better than Noelle Mering to help us tackle the profound challenge of the woke movement,” said Father Pivonka. “The speed with which it has taken over most of our major public and private institutions is extraordinary. We must never retreat from the world but always seek to engage it and to share the light of Christ, the only source of true human freedom and flourishing.”

“It is easy to think the woke ideology is too political or polarizing for Christian engagement,” said Mering. “But this is a movement that stems from something far more fundamental than politics. I truly appreciate being able to discuss this in depth with Father Dave, who keeps love for persons and true care for their well-being at the forefront of our minds and hearts.”

Mering is a fellow at the Ethics and Public Policy Center, editor of TheologyofHome.com, mother of six, and an author. Her book "Awake, Not Woke" critiques woke ideology as a danger to Christianity and society.

"In Focus" is part of Franciscan University's offerings on its online platform FaithandReason.com. The platform features free videos and podcasts on topics such as Church and culture, politics and philosophy, morality and the marketplace, spirituality, and life in Christ. The University plans to release three "In Focus" series annually.

To watch the first episode of "In Focus," registration is available for free at FaithandReason.com.