The Legacy of Avery Jules: First American Jesuit Cardinal and Theologian

Avery Jules introduces himself as the first American Jesuit Cardinal and a significant Catholic theologian of the 20th century, inviting listeners to explore his life story.

Born on August 24, 1918, in Auburn, New York, Avery comes from a distinguished family. His father, John Foster Duels, was a U.S. Secretary of State who negotiated the peace treaty with Japan post-World War II, while his uncle, Allen Duels, directed the CIA. This lineage of influential figures inspired Avery's aspirations to make a historical impact.

Despite a strong Presbyterian heritage, Avery's immediate family was relatively secular by the time of his birth. His parents, John and Janet Pomeroy Duels, were respected in their community, but religion played a minor role in their household.

Avery's education spanned various locations, including primary schooling in New York City, secondary education in Switzerland and England, and ultimately attending Harvard College. It was during his college years that he began to explore philosophical and theological questions.

At Harvard, Avery developed a profound interest in the philosophies of Aristotle and Plato, which significantly shaped his worldview. He also began to deepen his relationship with Jesus through active engagement with the gospel.

A pivotal moment occurred when Avery, after reading St. Augustine's 'City of God,' experienced a spiritual awakening while observing a budding tree along the Charles River. This moment ignited a realization of God's personal creation of the world, solidifying his belief in an all-good and omnipotent God.

After graduating from Harvard in 1940, Avery joined the United States Navy in 1941, serving for six years and achieving the rank of lieutenant. His military service coincided with a deepening exploration of Catholic theology.

In 1946, following his discharge from the Navy, Avery officially converted to Catholicism and entered the Jesuit order, despite concerns about his family's reaction to his new religious path.

The speaker reflects on their fear of rejection, which motivated them to write 'A Testimonial to Grace,' a book detailing their theological conversion and journey. This work was intended to communicate their experiences not only to their family but also to a broader audience.

After several years, the speaker began teaching philosophy at Fordham University, where they formed meaningful relationships. However, from 1960 to 1988, they transitioned to Woodstock College and later the Catholic University of America, serving as a Jesuit priest and theologian, focusing on Catholic tradition and contemporary culture.

The speaker emphasizes that a life of prayer is foundational to effective teaching, asserting that a theologian who does not pray cannot be a good theologian. Their relentless pursuit of knowledge is highlighted as a driving force throughout their career.

In 1956, the speaker was ordained into the priesthood and subsequently enrolled at the Gregorian University in Rome, where they earned a doctorate in sacred theology by 1958. Their commitment to spreading knowledge continued from 1969 to 2000 through various roles, including professor of systematic theology and member of the Fordham Board of Trustees.

The speaker received numerous accolades throughout their career, including the Fordham Founder's Reward and ordination to the College of Cardinals by Pope John Paul II. They reflect on their diverse roles, from Harvard graduate to naval lieutenant, Jesuit priest, theologian, and cardinal, feeling they have made a significant mark on history.

As president of both the Catholic Theological Society of America and the American Theological Society, the speaker authored over 700 religious articles and 23 books. Their most notable work, 'Models of the Church,' published in 1974, is recognized as a cornerstone of contemporary Catholic theology, presenting five distinct models of understanding the church.

The speaker has dedicated their life to exploring the relationship between faith and reason, embodying the power of prayer. They are honored by their colleague, Joseph McShane, who described them as a person of prodigious intellect and great holiness, a title the speaker embraces.