Mission and Vision Tilburg School of Catholic Theology

Mission statement

The mission of the Tilburg School of Catholic Theology is to provide academic-theological research of and education regarding Christianity and religion in a broad sense. It does so from a Catholic perspective, in keeping with Tilburg University’s core values, and with a focus on the University, society, and the church.

TST aims to play a role at the heart of these intersections and unfold strategies to create a fruitful cross-fertilization regarding its involvement in each of these areas.

Embedded in the University

2027 not only marks Tilburg University’s centenary of but it is also the occasion to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Tilburg School of Catholic Theology. Building on the past, knowing that theology as one of the oldest academic disciplines is part of the foundation of the university tradition, it endorses the open Catholic identity of Tilburg University. The School seeks to connect locally, nationally, and internationally to scholarly reflection on societal issues and to respond to the lack of literacy for questions concerning religion and fulfillment. From its academic approach and its focus on the Judeo-Christian sources of Western identity, TST seeks to connect with a wider society in its philosophical and religious diversity and with the Roman Catholic Church and Christian tradition in its plurality.

Focused on Society

Traditionally, theology builds on a tradition of interdisciplinary reflection. Under the motto "Understanding Society," TST is committed to the changing position of religion in late modern society and demonstrates attention to the context of philosophical fragmentation. The School aims to produce Bachelor, Masters, and PhD graduates who demonstrate religious literacy—a combination of knowledge of the (intra and inter)religious world and (reading) skills regarding religion and philosophy of life—that enables them to contribute responsibly and critically to the social, academic, and ecclesiastical debate on the subject. Such expertise contributes to the media and NGOs and education and healthcare sectors in an era of digital upheaval.

Social and ecclesial context

True to the mission formulated by the most recent council, the School of Catholic Theology promotes critical reflection on faithful presence in society and academia. This includes not only studying the heritage and ever-developing doctrine of the Roman Catholic Church but also promoting (inter)religious dialogue (Gravissimum educationis 11).  As a canonically recognized institution, TST cherishes its connection with the world's largest faith community. It is part of a global network of over 200 Catholic universities and offers students the opportunity to pursue ministerial training and the ecclesiastically recognized degrees of sacrae theologiae baccalaureus (STB), licentiatus (STL), and doctor (STB). In line with this, it provides formation for professionals for pastoral positions in healthcare, justice, and the military. The TST researchers and lecturers show particular attention to the interaction between tradition and innovation, through the study of texts, ethical and doctrinal beliefs, and liturgical practices in a contemporary context.