Bishop Vann Appoints Dr. Pia de Solenni as First Theological Consultant for the Diocese of Orange
Garden Grove, Calif., (Sept. 26, 2016) – The Most Reverend Kevin Vann, Bishop of Orange, has appointed Pia de Solenni, SThD and associate dean of the Augustine Institute, to serve as the first Theological Consultant to the Office of the Bishop.
In this newly created position, the Theological Consultant collaborates with and advises key members of the Curia, including the Bishop, on pertinent matters of theology, doctrine, and Church history. Dr. de Solenni’s appointment is effective immediately.
“Pia is an inspirational and well-respected theologian and leader,” said Bishop Vann. “We are blessed as a Diocese to benefit from her expertise, passion, and faith. I look forward to the many gifts that she will bring to the people of Orange.”
Responsibilities of the Theological Consultant
In her role, Dr. de Solenni will assist the bishop in promoting and guarding the integrity of the Catholic faith. Her duties will include:
- Reviewing and offering observations on the bishop’s writings and teachings.
- Vetting articles for the diocesan newspaper and website for clarity and accuracy.
- Reviewing religion textbooks to ensure they are aligned with magisterial teachings.
- Performing the duty of a censor librorum (an official reviewer of written works).
- Authoring columns on current matters related to the faith, as requested by the bishop.
About Dr. Pia de Solenni
Dr. de Solenni received her doctorate in sacred theology, summa cum laude, from the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross in Rome. In 2001, she received the Award of the Pontifical Academies for her doctoral work, presented by St. John Paul II.
With extensive experience in women’s health, bioethics, the new feminism, and Catholicism and culture, she is a sought-after expert whose work has appeared in The Wall Street Journal Europe, The Washington Post, The National Catholic Reporter, and other respected publications.
She currently heads the new Augustine Institute satellite campus based at Christ Cathedral as associate dean and will continue in that role.
“I’ve been given a unique education and role as a woman theologian, so I also hope to fulfill another way that women can have an active role in the Church,” Dr. de Solenni told OC Catholic.
About The Roman Catholic Diocese of Orange
The Roman Catholic Diocese of Orange is the growing Catholic community in Orange County, California. Officially established in 1976, the Diocese of Orange’s history dates back to 1776 with the founding of Mission San Juan Capistrano. Today, as home to more than 1.3 million faithful believers, the Diocese of Orange is the 12th largest and one of the fastest growing in the nation.
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