Idolatry & The Eucharist: How to See God in Things without Making a God of Things

Join us for the Centre for Christian Engagement’s (CCE) November Lecture featuring Dr. William T. Cavanaugh, Beeson Family Professor of Catholic Studies at DePaul University.

In this lecture, Dr. Cavanaugh will explore how worship in modern society has shifted toward nationalism, consumerism, and other aspects of contemporary life. Drawing on the biblical concept of idolatry, he will examine how we elevate our own creations while diminishing the value of human persons.

He will also explore how the Eucharist offers an alternative approach to consumption, helping us recognize God’s presence in the world without turning created things into objects of worship.

About the Speaker

Dr. William T. Cavanaugh is the Beeson Family Professor of Catholic Studies and Director of the Center for World Catholicism and Intercultural Theology at DePaul University in Chicago.

He holds degrees from the University of Notre Dame, the University of Cambridge, and Duke University. He has authored nine books, edited eight others, and serves as editor of Modern Theology. His most recent book, The Uses of Idolatry, was published by Oxford University Press in 2024.

His work has been published in 19 languages, and he has delivered lectures across six continents.

Event Details

Date: Monday, November 16, 2026
Time: 7:00–9:00 PM
Location: St. Mark’s College, 5935 Iona Drive, Vancouver, BC
Format: In-person and online
Admission: Free (registration required)

The lecture will be followed by a question-and-answer session and light refreshments for in-person attendees.

This event is co-sponsored by CityGate Vancouver.

Registration

This lecture is free and open to all. Advance registration is kindly requested.