Rev. James D. Conley, D.D., S.T.L. | Diocese of Lincoln website

During this Jubilee Year, many are embarking on pilgrimages, whether to Rome or local sites. Through a Humanities Syllabus, a different kind of pilgrimage is offered, exploring cultural and literary landmarks that stimulate minds and imaginations.

This syllabus seeks to trace the human journey as beings who desire truth and seek goodness. It aims to inspire beauty amidst life's challenges, encouraging enthusiasm for the humanities. The series invites families, parishes, and schools to engage with readings, poetry recitations, music listening, and film viewings.

The theme this month explores life's journey as a search for identity and purpose found ultimately in God. "All human beings must journey through life," reflecting on figures like Abraham or Moses called by God to a transcendent homeland.

The book highlighted is Homer's "Odyssey," described as impactful since college days at the University of Kansas. The epic recounts Odysseus's decade-long struggle to return home after the Trojan War. This longing for home signifies a universal desire for belonging within family and community. "As Christians, our ultimate home is heaven."

Catholic high school students in the Diocese of Lincoln will read "Odyssey" during their studies. The personal travel experiences shared highlight life's journey towards an eternal home with God.

In film, "The Way" (2010) by Amelio Estevez and Martin Sheen portrays a modern pilgrimage on the Camino de Santiago in Spain. It captures spiritual renewal and self-discovery through its depiction of faith's search for meaning.

Music from medieval Spain features in the syllabus with “The Red Book of Montserrat,” expressing pilgrims' joy along their journey with its melodies.

Francis Thompson’s poem “The Hound of Heaven” narrates Christ’s pursuit of individuals seeking happiness apart from Him.

Thomas Cole's paintings "The Voyage of Life" depict life's stages from childhood to old age as journeys guided by guardian angels.

These works emphasize life beyond mere beginnings and endings; they explore struggles, joys, relationships encountered along the way. Each piece reflects Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart…he will make straight your paths.”

Bishop Conley's Humanities Syllabus includes:

- “The Odyssey” by Homer

- “The Way” (2010)

- The Red Book of Montserrat

- “The Hound of Heaven” by Francis Thompson

- “The Voyage of Life,” Thomas Cole

Additional suggestions feature works like J.R.R Tolkien's literature or films such as "O Brother Where Art Thou?" Music pieces include Franz Schubert’s compositions among others recommended for children too.

Further resources can be found at benedictinstitute.org under The Benedict XVI Institute for Sacred Music & Divine Worship which aims at opening doors through beauty towards God.