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The Jesuit Conference of Canada and the United States (JCCU) has decided to close the First Studies program at Loyola University Chicago at the end of the current academic year.
Loyola’s First Studies program has been a key part of Jesuit formation for decades, serving as an academic and spiritual foundation for those preparing for ministry. Established in 1981, the program has helped shape generations of Jesuits, many of whom have gone on to serve as educators, parish leaders, and social justice advocates.
Part of the multi-year formation program for Jesuits, First Studies follows the two years of the Novitiate. During First Studies–typically over two years–Jesuit Scholastics study philosophy, theology, and other subjects in addition to service and formation experiences. After First Studies, Jesuits move on to Regency where they work in a Jesuit school or project for two to three years. Full-time theology studies follow Regency, with ordination to the priesthood at the conclusion of theology studies and final formation preparation. Generally, the entire formation process before ordination is about 10 years.
“The Society owes Loyola University and all involved there in First Studies a deep debt of gratitude,” said the Provincials of the U.S. and Canada in a letter to the Jesuit community at Loyola. “We also owe a great debt of gratitude to the Loyola University Jesuit Community which first welcomed the ‘Collegiate’ program to Loyola in 1981 and for over 40 years hosted what we now call the First Studies program as an integral part of its community.”
While Loyola’s First Studies program will close, similar programs at Fordham University and Saint Louis University will continue. The JCCU’s decision reflects the reality that the number of Jesuits in formation does not necessitate sustaining three programs.
“While First Studies will conclude, the University remains deeply connected to the Jesuit mission and will continue to support Jesuit scholarship and formation in other ways,” said Father Richie Salmi, S.J., Rector of the Jesuit Community. “Jesuits continue to study in advanced graduate programs in Philosophy, Education, and Modern Languages and Literature. Loyola’s partnership with the Jesuit Community remains strong. The Jesuit presence on campus, through faculty, administration, chaplaincy, and student mentorship, remains a vital part of Loyola’s identity as a Jesuit, Catholic institution.”
