Villanova's Letters to the World: Magnifica Humanitas and the history of Papal Encyclicals

Pope Leo XIV’s first encyclical, Magnifica Humanitas, made waves with its attention to issues of labor, AI, warfare and legacies of slavery. But where does this latest work fit into the broader history of modern popes writing for the public? On Wednesday, Oct. 7 at 6 p.m., join Villanova University’s Albert Lepage Center for History in the Public Interest for an in-person panel conversation on the impact papal encyclicals have had on social movements throughout the world. This conversation will be moderated by Colleen Mitchell, PhD, associate director of outreach for the Augustinian Institute and assistant teaching professor, Political Science. Featuring Francesco Cesareo, PhD, Villanova University; Janine Giordano Drake, PhD, Indiana University Bloomington; Massimo Faggioli, PhD, Villanova University; and Ines Murzaku, PhD, Seton Hall University.

  • Date:10/07/2026 06:00 PM - 10/07/2026 07:15 PM
  • Location 800 East Lancaster Avenue, Villanova, PA 19085, USA (Map)
  • More Info:Topper Theater of the John and Joan Mullen Center for the Performing Arts
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Oct 07

Magnifica Humanitas

Pope Leo XIV’s first encyclical, Magnifica Humanitas, made waves with its attention to issues of labor, AI, warfare and legacies of slavery. But where does this latest work fit into the broader history of modern popes writing for the public?  


On Wednesday, Oct. 7 at 6 p.m., join us in the Topper Theater of the John and Joan Mullen Center for the Performing Arts for a panel conversation on the impact papal encyclicals have had on social movements throughout the world. This conversation will be moderated by Colleen Mitchell, PhD, associate director of outreach for the Augustinian Institute and assistant teaching professor, Political Science.


Featuring:

  • Francesco Cesareo, PhD, Villanova University
  • Janine Giordano Drake, PhD, Indiana University Bloomington
  • Massimo Faggioli, PhD, Villanova University
  • Ines Murzaku, PhD, Seton Hall University 

The John and Joan Mullen Center for the Performing Arts
800 East Lancaster Avenue, Villanova, PA 19085
View on map

Wednesday, October 7, 2026
06:00pm - 07:15pm

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Our venue is wheelchair accessible. If you require additional accommodation to participate, please contact lepagecomms@villanova.edu.