Latin

Why Latin?

On November 10, 2012, Pope Benedict XVI issued a motu propio that established The Pontifical Academy for Latin.  In the letter the Holy Father called for the further study of the language for various reasons. He pointed out that it is the language of the church which has been used for centuries to share the Gospel.  It was, for most of Western History, the means of universal communication, and, after the fall of the Roman Empire, the Church became its champion as it became the avenue for communicating her theology and liturgy.  Pope Benedict XVI argued that Latin remains important in our times since it is a gateway for accurate study of philosophy, theology, patristics, canon law, and liturgy.  He advocated for the strengthening of humanities programs by emphasizing its study.  For such reasons, we also promote Latina lingua.  It is a door to the riches of our past.  Students who learn to read Latin are able to gain greater understanding of the theology, philosophy, liturgy, and, in general, the thinking of Western Civilization.  Reading Cicero, Virgil, St. Augustine, or St. Thomas Aquinas in the original language bears a much greater fruit than reading the author through a translator.  Just as we strive to teach the prayers of the Church in her native language, so too do we desire that our students connect with the living past through the Latin tongue.