”We’ve been reaching the world digitally for many years, but our equipment was primitive and our studios weren’t truly soundproof,” Hahn explained. “We did what we could with what we had. But our new studios are state-of-the-art. That means better quality and greater quantity of our video and audio content. That means new sets for hosting visiting authors and speakers,” he added.
Hahn said the new headquarters will also give the center “the ability to hold on-site events, ranging from small-scale talks and Bible studies to full-scale conferences for clergy, scholars, and lay leaders.”
“We’ve already planned our first-ever Scripture conference for deacons for fall 2024, and we’re planning to bring back our popular Scripture conferences for seminarians. We have three annual off-site priest conferences, which are now attracting over 600 priests — but priests also tell us they want smaller gatherings for practical training. All that will now also be possible,” Hahn stated.
Digital learning platform
The center’s digital learning platform, known as Emmaus Academy, aims to see “clergy and laity alike share in the experience of the two disciples on Easter Sunday: ‘Did not our hearts burn within us’ as the Scriptures were opened by our risen Lord,” Hahn said.
The Emmaus Academy, he said, “gives Catholics the ability to learn from world-class theologians as if they were right there with them in the classroom.” In addition, the center’s proximity to Franciscan University of Steubenville, where Hahn has taught for more than 30 years as a professor of theology and Scripture, also “gives us access to a wide variety of presenters, and our courses place a particular emphasis on Scripture as it’s encountered in the heart of the Church — the sacred liturgy,” he emphasized.
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