�鶹����’ PhD. in Theology will be offered through a combination of asynchronous coursework and live synchronous seminars, making advanced theological formation accessible to students regardless of geographic location.

Program Director Dr. Joshua Madden shares, “The PhD in Theology is an innovative program that allows students to plumb the depths of the Christian Tradition for the sake of building up both the Church and the Academy.”

More than a terminal degree, the PhD in Theology is a path toward becoming a teacher of teachers, one who draws from Scripture, the Church Fathers, Doctors of the Church, and the entire breadth of Tradition to illuminate truth for a searching world.

The new doctoral program continues �鶹����’ promise to alumni and students to provide opportunities for those who desire not simply to know theology but to hand it on. Dr. Kristina Olsen, VP of Academic Affairs, adds, “Our PhD graduates will contribute meaningfully to theological scholarship to support and promote the love of God, the teaching of the faith, and Catholic evangelization throughout the world.”

Students will earn a PhD in Theology and may specialize in one of four concentrations: Sacred Scripture, Thomistic Studies, Moral and Spiritual Theology, and Dogmatic and Historical Theology. Additionally, students will learn to conduct advanced theological research, engage deeply with primary sources, contribute original scholarship to the Catholic intellectual tradition, and form the next generation of Church leaders. The program will admit a small, select cohort of students, allowing for close faculty mentorship and scholarly collaboration.

For more information or to apply to the PhD in Theology Program, visit holyapostles.edu/phd-in-theology/ or contact the Admissions Office at 860-632-3000 or admissions@holyapostles.edu.

The post �鶹���� Launches the First Faithfully Catholic 100% Online PhD in Theology appeared first on �鶹���� College & Seminary.

At a time when college costs continue to rise, �鶹���� follows a different path. We believe a faithful Catholic education should be accessible and affordable, not something that leaves students burdened by debt.

Fr. Peter Kucer, President-Rector, often reminds us, “A debt-free graduate is a gift to the Church.” That is why �鶹���� remains committed to helping students earn accredited degrees at an affordable cost.

At �鶹����, affordability is only part of our mission. Recently, Pope Leo XIV reminded Catholic colleges and universities that they must cultivate in students a passion for the truth, and that truth is Christ Himself. This mission has guided �鶹���� since its founding: a mission to form the whole person–to cultivate Catholic leaders with the heart of Christ.

By keeping tuition affordable, we seek to make that formation accessible to more students who desire an education rooted in academic excellence, faithful Catholic teaching, and a deeper understanding of their vocation.

Why Students Choose �鶹����

• Faithful Catholic education rooted in the Church’s intellectual tradition
• A commitment to affordability
• Flexible online options that fit real-life needs

Faithful. Affordable. Flexible.

Whether you’re discerning your future studies, preparing for a career, or seeking to better serve the Church, �鶹���� is here to accompany you every step of the way.

Live your mission with �鶹���� College & Seminary.

�鶹���� College and Seminary (www.holyapostles.edu) is a NECHE and ATS accredited college with a mission of preparing and educating seminarians, consecrated, and lay students for the New Evangelization through undergraduate and graduate programs. Students have access to faithfully Catholic, truly affordable, and fully online programs as well as residential religious programs in historic Cromwell, Connecticut. As a pioneer in online learning, �鶹���� is one of the first theological schools to offer 100% online graduate programs. Alumni and faculty of the institution include internationally recognized leaders and experts in apologetics, philosophy, and theology.

The post �鶹���� Freezes Undergraduate Tuition appeared first on �鶹���� College & Seminary.

Join us for a community-wide reflection on Pope Leo XIV’s new encyclical, Magnifica humanitas.

In this lecture and open conversation, we will explore what the �鶹���� Father is asking of us as a Catholic institution formed and united in the digital age. Together, we’ll consider how the encyclical’s vision of the human person can guide our teaching, learning, and witness as an on-campus and online community.

All faculty, staff, and students are warmly invited to gather, listen, and share in this moment of discernment for �鶹����.

The post A Conversation on the Human Person & AI appeared first on �鶹���� College & Seminary.

Bishop Betancourt, Msgr. Cuong Pham, Archbishop Christopher Coyne, Very Rev. Peter Kucer, Daniel O’Connor, Regina O’Connor and Patrick, Very Rev. Martin Rooney, Bishop Richard Reidy | Photo courtesy of Phil Farnsworth

The evening brought together alumni, friends and graduates at the stunning for the 2026 �鶹���� Gala. Guests enjoyed inspiring speakers, beautiful music, a lively auction, and powerful stories. We are deeply grateful to all who attended and supported our mission, helping us nearly double support this year.

The program opened with welcoming remarks from the Very Rev. Peter S. Kucer, MSA, President-Rector of �鶹���� College & Seminary. Bishop Richard F. Reidy of the Diocese of Norwich reflected on the �鶹����’ impact on the local Church, forming individuals who serve faithfully as clergy and laity. As Bishop Reidy noted, �鶹���� is “a blessing to the Church,” both for its online students and for those who come to campus from around the world to be formed for the priesthood.

Guests also heard from the 2026 Commencement speakers, and Mr. Daniel O’Connor, who offered messages of encouragement and conviction, calling all present to live the faith with joy and enthusiasm. Reflecting on the mission of �鶹����, Mr. O’Connor remarked, “The treasures that �鶹���� is building up and has been building up for so long are invincible because they are in heaven. �鶹���� is one of the very rare places that is above all dedicated to building up its treasures in heaven.” Msgr. Pham reminded attendees that “Christ continues to call, the Church continues to respond,” and that �鶹���� participates in that call through the quiet witness of transformed lives, forming men and women in Christ for mission.

Special thanks to John Terrio of Auction Knights, Phil Farnsworth of Farnsworth Photography, and Saint Clements Charities for their outstanding hospitality and support. Proceeds from the evening directly advance �鶹����’ mission to provide an affordable, high-quality education for seminarians, religious, and lay students.

The post �鶹���� Gala – An Evening of Joy appeared first on �鶹���� College & Seminary.

Baccalaureate Mass begins at 10:30 am EDT
Sixty-Eighth Commencement begins at 1:00 pm EDT

The post Commencement Live Stream appeared first on �鶹���� College & Seminary.

The commencement exercises will take place on Saturday, April 25, 2026, in Our Lady Queen of the Apostles Chapel on the �鶹���� campus. Festivities will begin on Thursday evening with the �鶹���� Gala held at Saint Clements Castle & Marina featuring special guest the Most Reverend Richard F. Reidy, Bishop of Norwich, and keynote addresses.

“Commencement is about both celebrating accomplishments and preparing graduates for their future mission in life,” said Fr. Peter Kucer, President-Rector of �鶹����. “In welcoming Monsignor Cuong M. Pham and Professor Daniel O’Connor, we present our graduates with two excellent witnesses—one rooted in pastoral and ecclesial service, the other in intellectual and lay apostolate—who together reflect the fullness of the Church. Their presence will challenge and encourage our students to live their vocations with fidelity, generosity, and hope.”

�鶹���� will bestow a Doctorate of Sacred Theology, honoris causa, upon Msgr. Cuong M. Pham, in recognition of his notable contributions to the faith. Msgr. Pham is a priest of the Diocese of Brooklyn whose ministry reflects devoted service to both the Universal Church and the local Church.

From July 1, 2019, to July 1, 2021, he was assigned to the Apostolic Nunciature in Washington, DC, where he served as one of the Secretaries for General Affairs, advancing the ecclesial mission of the Nunciature and assisting in matters concerning the �鶹���� See’s relationship with the bishops and the Church in the United States.

From 2011 to 2019, Msgr. Pham served at the Pontifical Council for Legislative Texts in Rome. The Council assists the �鶹���� Father in matters of canon law. During those years, he contributed to significant legislative initiatives, promoted the study and faithful application of canon law worldwide and established the first authoritative website dedicated to Church legislation and canonical discipline.

On February 11, 2016, Pope Francis named him a Chaplain of His Holiness, an honor that enrolled him among the clergy of the Papal Household and conferred upon him the title Monsignor. Appointed Pastor of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Astoria on July 10, 2021, the parish stands as one of the most vibrant and culturally diverse communities in the Diocese.

Born in Saigon, Vietnam, Msgr. Pham came to New York with his family in 1990. He attended St. John’s University in Queens before entering the seminary in Douglaston and later Huntington, New York. He was ordained to the Sacred Priesthood on June 2, 2001. Fluent in English, Italian, Spanish, and Vietnamese, with familiarity in Latin, French, and Chinese, Msgr. Pham continues to devote himself to fostering unity among cultures, strengthening parish life and encouraging vocations.

�鶹���� will bestow a Doctorate of Philosophy, honoris causa, upon Professor Daniel O’Connor in recognition of his notable contributions to the faith.

Daniel O’Connor is a professor of Philosophy and Religion who teaches undergraduates at a State University of New York Community College. He is honored to have instructed thousands of students in courses on Philosophy, Existentialism, Religion, Mathematics, and Physics.

Originally an engineer for GE Global Research doing quantum beam research, he switched careers and helped to establish the John Bosco House—a transitional home for homeless young men—where he then served the residents as a live-in house father.

Professor O’Connor is an accomplished author and speaker. He is the author of several books, including Thy Will Be Done and Only Man Bears His Image. His most recent book, First Line of Defense, aims to inspire men in their Catholic faith and was co-authored with longtime EWTN host and US Grace Force host Doug Barry. It will be published by Ignatius Press in 2026. He also writes for his personal website and is a featured guest on popular Catholic podcasts.

Daniel has an undergraduate degree from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) and obtained a Master of Arts in Theology from �鶹���� College & Seminary in 2013. He has since completed several years of study towards his PhD in Philosophy. He met his wife, Regina, at �鶹����, where she received a Bachelor of Arts in 2013. They live in New York with their six children, Joseph, David, Mary, Luisa, John Paul, and Patrick.

�鶹���� College and Seminary (www.holyapostles.edu) is a NECHE and ATS accredited college with a mission of preparing and educating seminarians, consecrated, and lay students for the New Evangelization through undergraduate and graduate programs. Students have access to faithfully Catholic, truly affordable, and fully online programs as well as residential religious programs in historic Cromwell, Connecticut. As a pioneer in online learning, �鶹���� is one of the first theological schools to offer 100% online graduate programs. Alumni and faculty of the institution include internationally recognized leaders and experts in apologetics, philosophy, and theology.

The post �鶹���� 68th Commencement appeared first on �鶹���� College & Seminary.

On March 12, �鶹���� welcomed a group of alumni priests, brothers, deacons and friends for a gathering with the Most Reverend Richard F. Reidy, Bishop of Norwich, CT. Alumni from Connecticut, New Jersey, New York and Louisiana attended. It was a great opportunity for everyone to reconnect. The evening included a reception and dinner followed by exposition, benediction and night prayer.

Below are a few photos from the gathering. Photo credit to Jacqueline Marie Photography.

The post Clergy Alumni Gathering appeared first on �鶹���� College & Seminary.

Deacon Matthew Newsome (Master of Theology, 2008, and current student in the Master of Sacred Scripture program) has published a book of reflections on the Mass entitled “.” This book grew out of a series of retreat talks he has given to help ordinary Catholics understand the heavenly mysteries that take place upon the altars of their churches each time the Mass is offered, and the importance of our sacred duty to offer worship to the Almighty God. If you or someone you know has ever asked, “Why do we go to Mass, anyway? Why can’t we just worship God on our own?” this is the book to read.

Alumna Madonna Murphy, M.A. Theology 2010, has a book coming out this May 2026 with Scepter Publishers, “.” A Treasure for the Church brings together St. Josemaría’s personal, heartfelt answers to real-life questions posed during his catechetical gatherings in Spain (1972) and throughout Latin America (1974-1975). Drawn from his conversations with parents, educators, and youth, this book captures his timeless, practical advice for forming Christian character at home, in school, and in the world.

Student Jeff Plante has published his newest book, “.” It is unlike any other Catholic daily Scripture devotional; completely dedicated to the love of our neighbors. It is an ethos of Christianity…it is core to our faith…it is how we are called to live. In our daily immersion in the Word of God, specifically oriented on love of neighbor, may we grow closer to each other and, by extension, closer to Him in the process.

Student Carol D’Souza has published a new article in the Spring 2026 issue of Co‑Redemptrix magazine, titled “In You, Lord, No One Can See Your Face, But in Mary We See Your Beauty.” The magazine, produced by the Marian Franciscans of the Immaculate in England, focuses this issue on the Trinitarian‑Marian mystery, especially the relationship between Our Lady and God the Father. Carol’s contribution explores a topic that has received little theological attention, offering readers a deeper understanding of this profound and beautiful mystery. It’s a wonderful opportunity to engage with fresh scholarship on Mary’s unique place within the life of the Trinity.

Alumna Anastasia Wambeke recently had the opportunity to write, direct, and star in her very own for one of her film production classes.

Alumnus Dennis Pettit has joined the University of Dallas, Neuhaus Institute of Ministry and Evangelization, as a part-time Adjunct Instructor. Dennis graduated from �鶹���� Apistles in 2022 with a Master’s in Theology, concentration in Sacred Scripture.

Alumnus Kaleb Hammond was recently interviewed by Kiki Latimer on the WCAT program “,” about his article for the New Oxford Review entitled “Tolkien’s Insights into the Feminine Soul: Icons of the Virgin Mary in ‘The Lord of the Rings‘”, published last November. The interview was conducted on March 18. The New Liturgical Movement will also be republishing Kaleb’s article on Dom Prosper Gueranger’s Anti-Liturgical Heresy, entitled ‘The Voice of Tradition,’ originally published with Adoremus Bulletin, on Easter Wednesday.

Alumni Jonathon Fessenden and Philipp Hadden have published their newest book, through Missio Dei Catholic.

Crown of Roses is written for modern Catholics in light of the Church’s timeless teachings and sacred tradition. A book that explores the history, power, and spiritual efficacy of the Rosary. With reflections that speak to souls in every stage of the spiritual journey, and beautiful introduction by Fr. Gregory Pine, O.P., our book brings together the wisdom of Missio Dei’s own talented authors to help you fall more deeply in love with this powerful Marian prayer—through which Our Lady has promised to obtain for us all that we ask of her.

Alumna Diana Ray, MAPS 2025, accepted residency at Frederick Heath Hospital in their Clinical Pastoral Education program.

Alumna Allison LeDoux has been asked to present a keynote address on “Guardians and Servants of Human Life: Upholding the Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care Services for the Renewal of a Culture of Life in Health Care” at the 21st annual Divine Mercy Medicine, Bioethics, and Spirituality Conference will take place April 29-May 1, 2026 at the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy in Stockbridge, MA.

Alumnus Christopher Reilly had three articles about artificial intelligence published in March: “” in Catholic World Report, “, and “” in the New Oxford Review.

The post �鶹���� Alumni and Student Publications and News – April 2026 appeared first on �鶹���� College & Seminary.

Reverend William Vincent Callery, Jr., known affectionately as Father Bill, passed away on November 6, 2025, at age 84. A Pittsburgh native and Duquesne University graduate, he first served as a U.S. Army officer before discerning a call to the priesthood. He prepared for ministry at �鶹���� College & Seminary and Sacred Heart Seminary and School of Theology, and was ordained for the Diocese of Fargo in 2001. He went on to pastor several North Dakota parishes and continued assisting in ministry even in retirement.

Father Bill will be remembered for his humility, steadfast faith, and lifelong dedication to serving the Church and his communities.

Reverend Victor Chaker, 91, died on February 3, 2026. Father Chaker was born in Port Said, Egypt in 1934, immigrated to the United States, and before entering the priesthood was an accomplished engineer, husband, and father. After his beloved wife died, Victor entered �鶹���� Seminary and received his MDiv on May 9, 2003, and was ordained a priest for the diocese of Norwich on May 31, 2003.

He served the faithful of St. Mary Parish in Coventry as a summer parochial vicar, parochial vicar, and pastor, and later retired from active ministry. He also served the Legion of Mary as Diocesan Spiritual Director. Father Chaker is survived by his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and three living sisters.

The post In Memoriam – April 2026 appeared first on �鶹���� College & Seminary.

A Life Redirected

Dr. Chutikorn grew up in what he describes as a hectic environment. His parents divorced when he was only two years old, and he lived with his father until the age of nine. Paul then moved in with his mother, who was a real estate property manager, a profession with the downside of frequent relocation. Unfortunately, she battled personal problems, and as a result, Paul did not have the supervision a child needs. Although he did not get into trouble himself, he hung around with his cousin, who became involved with drugs and gang affiliation. Paul admits that, while not getting involved, he became attracted to the family-like, protective environment the gang brought—albeit destructive.

Paul’s life took a dramatic turn when he became a father at 16. After taking a year off from school to put his life in order, he completed high school and moved his future wife and child to Oregon to be near his sister. He felt a small-town environment was a better and more affordable place to raise a child.

While growing up, he and his siblings had no exposure to any religion at home. In high school, however, his sister joined a Christian youth group and, in Oregon, attended a Protestant nondenominational church. Now living in Oregon, Paul began attending the same church and loved it. He found that it helped him work toward his goal of becoming a more moral person and bring order to his life. His guiding principle was that he did not want his daughter to live the life he experienced, and he was doing everything possible to do something different.

Discovering the Catholic Church

During this time, when attending church and Bible studies, he began to love the person of Jesus Christ. Unfortunately, a strong anti-Catholic sentiment within the Bible study classes led him to develop a negative opinion about the Catholic faith. An important moment came when his brother, who was originally a Protestant, fell in love with and converted to Catholicism. Paul and his brother had heated discussions and, with the intention of proving his brother wrong, Paul did research into Church history. As he read, he realized that his brother was actually correct about the Catholic Church being the true legacy of Christ. As he put it, “The early Church looked remarkably Catholic.” He and his wife converted to Catholicism in 2009.

On fire with love for Christ and the Church, he hungered to learn more and share the information through teaching. He enrolled in the �鶹���� online studies program in 2016, just two years after it was fully approved, after hearing about it from his brother. The program, grounded in principles of Thomistic philosophy and theology, was something Paul had been looking for and could not find at any other college. In 2019, Paul earned an undergraduate degree in Theology and Philosophy.

Still on fire, Paul immediately began pursuing his Master of Theology degree, concentrating on Thomistic studies. This, again, was a new program that had launched in 2019, at the same time he graduated with his undergraduate degree.

Teaching, Leadership, and Providence

After earning his graduate degree, he began working as a teaching assistant (TA) at �鶹����, while also maintaining a job as Director of Faith Formation at his local parish. When a position opened in 2020, Paul began his adjunct career as the instructor of Moral Theology.

While holding this adjunct position, Paul pursued a Doctor of Education (EdD), which he realized would enable him to provide for his seven children and offer additional opportunities for him to teach and lead. As with so many of the opportunities that came before, the hand of God was at work again. When Paul was completing this program, �鶹���� posted a job opening for the position of associate dean. He applied and became the Associate Dean of Online Learning at �鶹���� in September 2024, while maintaining his adjunct teaching position.

Describing this journey, Paul explains, “I have been very, very blessed. It has not been a smooth ride; it’s been a busy schedule—having seven children, going to school, and working. That has been quite difficult, but the whole journey has been a complete blessing.”

The post God’s Hand at Work: Dr. Paul Chutikorn’s Journey to the Catholic Faith appeared first on �鶹���� College & Seminary.