USJ Macao Welcomed Fr. Mark Lewis, Rector of the Pontifical Gregorian University
USJ Macao Welcomed Fr. Mark Lewis, Rector of the Pontifical Gregorian University
12
Sep
12/09/2025
USJ Macao had the honor of hosting Fr. Mark Lewis, Rector of the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome, for a visit on 3 September, 2025.
The University of Saint Joseph (USJ) had the honor of hosting Fr. Mark Lewis, Rector of the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome, for a visit on 3 September, 2025.
Fr. Lewis was warmly welcomed by Prof. Stephen Morgan, Rector of USJ, at the Ilha Verde Campus. Their meeting was followed by a tour of the campus, including its classrooms, library, and residential hall.
Subsequently, Fr. Lewis visited the Faculty of Religious Studies and Philosophy (FRSP) located at the Seminary Campus where he was received by the Dean of FRSP, Fr. Cyril Law, and participated in a guided tour of the Saint Joseph’s Church, the Seminary Library, and the new facilities at FRSP.
During this visit, Fr. Lewis delivered a presentation to the faculty members, providing an overview of recent developments at the Pontifical Gregorian University, highlighting the integration of the Pontifical Biblical Institute and the Pontifical Oriental Institute into the University, a measure that has significantly expanded its academic scope. These two institutes function as important research centers – one focused on biblical exegesis and the other on the Theology and Canon Law of the Eastern Churches. The University also trains educators in both areas.
With nearly three thousand students from 127 countries, their Gregorian University emphasizes a global community. Fr. Lewis stressed the importance of contextual theology and social sciences to address contemporary Church needs. He shared his strategic vision, aiming to maintain the Gregorian’s reputation in Theological Education and foster international community engagement. He also mentioned the Laudato si’ Observatory, which explores the intersection of environmental issues and theology.
Fr. Lewis, born in Miami, Florida, and a member of the Jesuit Province of the Central and Southern United States, has spent the last nine years in the Italian capital – three years as a professor, three years as Vice-Rector, and is now completing his third year as Rector of the Gregorian University. Prior to this role, he served at the Jesuit Historical Institute after completing his PhD in Church History, specialising in the Renaissance and Reformation. He currently teaches Church History of the United States.
