STEUBENVILLE, OHIO—Franciscan University of Steubenville announced the launch of In Focus, a free, online video series hosted by University President Father Dave Pivonka, TOR ’89, on FaithandReason.com. The new series takes an in-depth look at culture, science, politics, the arts, and current issues through the lens of reason and faith. The first In Focus series features author Noelle Mering on how Catholics can understand and confront woke ideology.

Based on Mering’s popular book, Awake, Not Woke: A Christian Response to the Cult of Progressive Ideology, this seven-part series, “Confronting a Woke World,” takes viewers on a journey to understand the origins and nature of the woke movement, how Catholics can counter it, and how to navigate relationships with family and friends who have adopted wokeism.

“I can think of no one better than Noelle Mering to help us tackle the profound challenge of the woke movement,” said Father Pivonka. “The speed with which it has taken over most of our major public and private institutions is extraordinary. We must never retreat from the world but always seek to engage it and to share the light of Christ, the only source of true human freedom and flourishing.”

“It is easy to think the woke ideology is too political or polarizing for Christian engagement,” said Mering. “But this is a movement that stems from something far more fundamental than politics. I truly appreciate being able to discuss this in depth with Father Dave, who keeps love for persons and true care for their well-being at the forefront of our minds and hearts.”

Mering is a fellow at the Ethics and Public Policy Center, editor of TheologyofHome.com, the mother of six, and a prolific author. Her book, Awake, Not Woke unmasks woke ideology for the danger it is to Christianity and our society.

In Focus is the latest series launch by Franciscan University on its online platform, FaithandReason.com. Faith and Reason features free videos and podcasts delving into important topics such as Church and culture, politics and philosophy, morality and the marketplace, spirituality, and the joy of life in Christ. The University plans to launch three In Focus series per year.

To watch the first In Focus, register for free now at FaithandReason.com.