Fr Peter Gallagher SJ, Provincial Superior of the Jesuits in Britain, recently joined supporters of the Centre for Catholic Studies (CCS) at Durham University for their annual Friends and Benefactors event, a day of reflection, conversation and shared commitment to Catholic theology studies in Britain.

Held each year in the heart of historic Durham, the gathering offers supporters and partner organisations the opportunity to meet one another, engage directly with CCS staff and postgraduate students, and hear first-hand about the centre’s current work and future plans.

As one of the Centre’s principal benefactors, the Jesuits in Britain have long supported its mission. Reflecting on the occasion, Fr Peter Gallagher SJ, Provincial Superior of the Jesuits in Britain, said:

“The Jesuits in Britain are glad to support the Centre for Catholic Studies at Durham University. We value our relationship with the Centre and deeply admire its mission of research, teaching and outreach in Catholic theology. May it continue to do this good work for generations to come.”

The Centre for Catholic Studies offers advanced research and postgraduate programmes in Catholic theology, history, social thought, and interdisciplinary studies rooted in the Catholic intellectual tradition. It maintains a close and ongoing relationship with the Society of Jesus, regularly welcoming Jesuits into its academic and spiritual life.

Academic engagement in the British Province

The Jesuits’ involvement with the CCS is part of a wider commitment to academic research and education across a range of disciplines rooted in the Catholic intellectual tradition.

At the University of Oxford, Campion Hall, the Jesuit Permanent Private Hall, offers a vibrant environment for advanced study and research in theology, philosophy, ethics, and related disciplines. The work of students and fellows there not only enriches scholarship but also inspires action towards a more just and compassionate society.

Within Campion Hall, the Laudato Si’ Research Institute brings Catholic social thought into dialogue with urgent ecological and social issues, inspired by Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si’. The Institute undertakes interdisciplinary research addressing environmental, social, and ethical issues, aiming to promote sustainability and justice through a Catholic lens.

The London Jesuit Centre offers adult formation in theology, spirituality, and social and environmental justice. Rooted in the Ignatian tradition it offers a wide programme of courses, retreats, and events that support both intellectual and spiritual growth.

The Province also supports Mater Ecclesiae College, now integrated into St Mary’s University, Twickenham, which continues the work of the former pontifical faculty after the closure of Heythrop College.

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