Share
Loyola University Chicago welcomed renowned Jesuit author and editor-at-large of America magazine, Father James Martin, S.J., on September 3 for a reading and conversation centered on his newest book, Work in Progress: Confessions of a Busboy, Dishwasher, Caddy, Usher, Factory Worker, Bank Teller, Corporate Tool, and Priest.
Hosted by the School of Continuing and Professional Studies in partnership with the Midwest Jesuits’ Jesuit Friends and Alumni Network (JFAN) of Chicago, the event drew an audience of about 500 students, faculty, staff, alumni, and other guests. Father Martin began the event with reading selected passages from the book, a memoir-style meditation on the ongoing nature of personal, spiritual, and vocational growth.
Introducing his reading, Fr. Martin remarked on the beauty of the Lake Shore Campus and Madonna della Strada Chapel, and how much it had expanded since he studied philosophy at Loyola for his First Studies from 1990 to 1992.
Following the reading, Loyola President Mark C. Reed joined Fr. Martin on stage for a fireside-style conversation. The exchange was enlivened by the pair’s shared Philadelphia roots: Reed and Martin grew up as contemporaries in the city, giving their discussion an easy familiarity and a shared frame of reference. The conversation traced themes central to the book, including the importance of discernment, making mistakes, and the way God’s presence is often best seen in retrospect.
The two also reflected on the mission of Catholic higher education in a rapidly changing cultural landscape, and how institutions such as Loyola can remain grounded in tradition while responding thoughtfully to contemporary challenges. The talk was followed by a book signing, giving attendees the opportunity to meet Fr. Martin personally.
Following the event, Fr. Martin reflected on Instagram about how much has changed since his time on Loyola’s campuses, noting Madonna della Strada Chapel as a special highlight of what has stayed the same.
See more stories from the School of Continuing and Professional Studies.
