**Shocking Departure from Catholic Values: University of Portland's Shifting Theology Curriculum**
In yet another alarming display of modern educational trends, the University of Portland has announced major changes in its theology curriculum that signal a troubling departure from traditional Catholic teachings.
The department, run by the Congregation of the Holy Cross, will now allow theology majors to choose courses focused on "Queer Theologies" and other controversial topics instead of mandatory classes on "Biblical Texts." This decision, articulated by department chair David Turnbloom, raises serious concerns about the institution's commitment to its foundational Catholic values.
While Turnbloom insists the curriculum changes are aimed at giving students greater "autonomy" to explore their own faith traditions, critics fear this transformation is more about catering to progressive ideologies than upholding the teachings of the Catholic Church.
C. J. Doyle, executive director of the Catholic Action League, voiced his disappointment, characterizing the new course options—such as “God Our Mother” and “Interculturalist Feminist Theology”—as a "functional apostasy." He highlighted that such courses represent a radical rejection of Catholic Faith and Morals, undermining the very purpose of Catholic education.
The decision also comes at a time when the university has faced declining enrollment, raising questions about whether these curricular shifts are an attempt to attract a more liberal student body. The introduction of courses like "Queer Theologies," which explores affirmations of same-sex relationships within scriptural contexts, appears to contradict the traditional teachings of the Church and the institution's Catholic mission.
Notably, this is not the first time the University of Portland has been at the center of controversy regarding LGBTQ issues. Previous incidents, including a backlash against a priest who opposed an LGBT pride flag being displayed in residence halls, drew national attention and claimed that such opposition mimics the actions of those who crucified Christ.
As the university reshapes its identity, one has to wonder how far it will stray from its original mission. Many in the Catholic community are calling for a return to foundational teachings that emphasize spiritual and ethical integrity rather than fleeting societal trends.
In an era where educational institutions are often pressured to conform to modern concerns, this move serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding core values and remaining steadfast in the face of ideological shifts. The future of Catholic education may very well depend on the actions taken by institutions like the University of Portland amid this cultural upheaval.
With traditional Catholic tenets now seemingly at odds with the university's educational strategy, one can only hope that true faith and moral clarity will not be left by the wayside in pursuit of contemporary relevance.
Sources:
thecollegefix.comrevolver.newsthegatewaypundit.com