News Story

April 03, 2019

Catholic Poet to Speak at La Roche

PITTSBURGH, April 3, 2019 – Dr. James Matthew Wilson will read from his new collection of poems, “The Hanging God,” at La Roche University on Thursday, April 25 at 7 p.m.

The event, hosted by the La Roche Literary Society and Office of Mission and Ministry, will take place in Magdalen Chapel at La Roche’s campus in the North Hills. Admission is free.

“We are delighted to provide an opportunity for an audience to hear the poetry of Dr. Wilson,” Sister Rita Yeasted, SFCC, Ph.D., head of the Literary Society, said. “I have loved poetry all my life, and wish that the university could have a poetry reading every month of the year. I hope many come to hear Dr. Wilson on April 25.”

Dr. Wilson is associate professor of humanities and Augustinian traditions at Villanova University. He is poetry editor of Modern Age Magazine and the author of eight books, including “The Vision of the Soul: Truth, Goodness, and Beauty in the Western Tradition.” His new collection, “The Hanging God,” focuses on contemporary American life, portraying images that reflect its moral ravages.

“The Office of Mission and Ministry is very excited to partner with the English Department in welcoming Dr. James Matthew Wilson,” Sister Elena Almendarez, CDP, director of Mission and Ministry, said. “We look forward to meeting him, experiencing his poetry and enjoying an evening with the La Roche University community. We hope that many poetry lovers from the local area come to hear Dr. Wilson and reflect on his work to enrich their faith.”

There will be a reception following the program in the Father Peter Horton Lounge.

About La Roche University: A private liberal arts university in the North Hills of Pittsburgh, La Roche University offers 66 undergraduate programs of study, six master’s degrees and one doctoral degree, with particular strengths in education, business, criminal justice, psychology, and health and medical sciences as well as interior design and graphic design. This residential university provides a vibrant campus community for more than 1,400 men and women enjoying 30-plus student organizations and an exciting NCAA Div. III athletics program. Founded by the Sisters of Divine Providence in 1963, La Roche University embraces its Catholic heritage while welcoming people of all faiths and backgrounds. With a legacy of social justice and a commitment to international exchange, La Roche University educates students to be lifelong learners and achievers in an increasingly diverse and global society.