Chair of the national Eucharistic Revival shared how upholding the dignity of human life impacts the saints we can become at the Spring Archbishop John Ireland Lecture
Briefly:
- Bishop Andrew Cozzens, Diocese of Crookston, discusses the pastoral strategy of St. John Paul II and how this helps us become Saints for the spring Archbishop John Ireland Lecture.
- The event took place at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 14, 2026 inside the O’Shaughnessy Educational Center on the University of St. Thomas campus.
- Attendees gained insight into the teaching of St. John Paul II and how we can practically apply his formation on the dignity of life and divine mercy, from one of the nation’s foremost Catholic bishops.
The Saint Paul Seminary hosted its annual Archbishop John Ireland Lecture at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 14, 2026 in the University of St. Thomas’ O’Shaughnessy Educational Center Auditorium, featuring renowned speaker, Bishop Andrew Cozzens. Known for his dynamic teaching and deep insight on the Eucharist, Cozzens presented on the topic, “Do Not Be Afraid to Be Saints: The Pastoral Vision of St. John Paul II.”
In a world marked by profound brokenness and a deep need for mercy, Bishop Andrew Cozzens’ lecture highlighted St. John Paul II’s pastoral strategy of holding up holiness and proclaiming the greatness of human life. Drawing from his ministry as the Bishop of the Diocese of Crookston, Bishop Cozzens reflected on how exposure to the Divine Mercy reveals the healing our world longs for. He emphasized that, as the Church preaches God’s mercy, it must also boldly propose the call to the fullness of life that Jesus offers and invite all people to respond to the universal call to holiness and become Saints today.
The Archbishop John Ireland Lecture series honors the legacy of Archbishop Ireland, founder of The Saint Paul Seminary, who was a passionate advocate for Catholic education and leadership. This event continues that mission by fostering thoughtful dialogue on issues central to the Church’s life and mission.