Welcome to the Rockhurst University Thomas More Center for Catholic Thought and Culture. The Center, named after the University's patron saint, promotes critical and committed analysis of the Catholic tradition. Our thought-provoking programs solicit discussion of all aspects of Catholicism, including literature, history, fine arts, philosophy, theology, and the natural and social sciences.

The Thomas More Center encourages faculty and student research and study through a minor program in Catholic studies for undergraduates and a research grant program for Rockhurst faculty. Additionally, the Center provides continuing education opportunities and outreach programs to the community at large, including a lecture series that annually hosts a presentation by a noted scholar or artist on some element of Catholic thought and culture.

Established in the Spring of 2000, the Center has sponsored a course whose lectures have been published by the Rockhurst University Press — Catholicism at the Millennium: The Church of Tradition in Transition. Edited by Wilburn T. Stancil, the book comprises a variety of insightful essays by Rockhurst faculty on facets of the Catholic tradition in today’s world. It may be ordered through the Rockhurst University Press website, rockhurstpress.org, or by calling 816-501-4602.

Another Center-sponsored course resulted in a book, edited by Joseph A. Cirincione, entitled Deep Down Things: Essays on Catholic Culture (Lexington Books, 2008).  The book features contributions from Rockhurst faculty and outside scholars solicited by the Center on the nature and influence of Catholic ideas on human culture throughout history. Deep Down Things is available from the publisher and various online vendors.

The Thomas More Center also publishes Dimensions, an occasional newsletter with notices of upcoming events, book reviews, essays, and reflections on aspects of Catholic thought and culture. To receive the newsletter, click on the "Contact Us" link to the left and request that your name is added to our mailing list. Be sure to include your postal mailing address.

Feel free to contact Dr. Lynne Moss Bahr, at 816-501-4602 or email her with your comments and suggestions.  We invite your participation in our ongoing conversation about important issues and ideas in the Catholic tradition.