Rev Professor Benedict Groeschel CFR
Fr Benedict is the Director of the Office for Spiritual Development of the Archdiocese of New York and Visiting Professor of Psychology and Spirituality in the Institute. He obtained his Doctorate in Psychology from Columbia University in 1971 and has long been the Professor of Pastoral Psychology at St Joseph's Seminary of the Archdiocese of New York. He has also taught at Fordham University, Iona College and Maryknoll Seminary.
In May 1987, along with eight other friars, Fr Benedict formed the Community of Franciscan Friars of the Renewal under the Patronage of Cardinal O'Connor. This community follows the Capuchin tradition and is dedicated to preaching and providing care for the homeless in the South Bronx, Harlem, London and Honduras. He has published a number of books and tapes on spirituality and pastoral counselling and is familiar to television audiences. His books include "Arise from Darkness: When Life Doesn't Make Sense" (1995), "Journey Toward God" (2000) and "Cross at Ground Zero" (2001). In September 2003 he will teach JP561/661 Psychology and Pastoral Care of the Family at the Institute in Melbourne.
