Academy of Catholic Thought and Imagination
The Academy of Catholic Thought and Imagination at Loyola Marymount University is a community of scholars who work in dialogue with the Catholic intellectual tradition by developing, critically examining, communicating, or otherwise engaging the rich resources of Catholic thought and imagination, especially as it is informed by Jesuit and Ignatian vision. The Academy serves as a hub for scholarship, interdisciplinary research, innovative pedagogy, and creative outreach across LMU’s campus in the southwest United States and beyond.
The Passing of Pope Francis
Statement from AJCU’s President on Pope Francis
April 21, 2025
The Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities (AJCU) joins with Catholics and men and women of all faiths, or no faith at all, to mourn the passing of Pope Francis. He was one of the few leaders of our time with a deep compassion for the poor and marginalized, a courageous love of the Earth that God has given us, and a fresh voice in matters of conscience. He had an amazing gift for marrying traditional values with new realities and sensibilities while remaining true to the teachings of Jesus Christ.
For twelve years, we benefited from his wisdom and pastoral care, inspired and shaped by the teachings of St. Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Society of Jesus. He saw possibilities, not problems. He showed us how to forgive and reconcile, not divide and conquer. For the Church, he was a courageous reformer and always humble enough to admit mistakes. We have lost an inspiring and tireless advocate for transparency and shared responsibility. He will be sorely missed in the days and years ahead.
– Rev. Michael J. Garanzini, S.J., President, AJCU
ACTI in the LMU Community
Anima Mundi
Anima Mundi: The Soul of the World was a live performance over three nights in early December 2023. The show included a recorded soundtrack, a live choir, and an animated film. This collaborative artistic experience utilized 2D animation, 3D printing, and high-definition video mapping projection. José García Moreno wrote, designed, and directed the film. Timothy Law Snyder composed music for the project, and John Flaherty arranged and directed the music.
Advocate Podcast
Advocate is a podcast series telling stories with sound about prominent faculty, staff, and students at LMU. This show opens doors to understanding diverse faiths, races, and ideologies. We seek those who are overlooked or considered less traditional. The aim of our show is to cherish our history and simultaneously share vibrant experiences within our campus-wide community and beyond.
Laudato Si' Spotlight
Recent coverage of environmental activism as it relates to reparations and justice, which includes residents of the African continent.
Friends of ACTI Events
In Ghosts of Segregation, photographer Richard Frishman explores the lingering presence of segregation, slavery and institutional racism hidden in everyday American architecture.
Visit the Film Website
Wildwood is an upcoming stop-motion animated dark fantasy and sixth feature film produced by American animators Laika.
Featured Mission and Ministry Event
Join the Center for Religion and Spirituality for their event, redefining gender roles in faith-based communities and unpacking the dangers of ignoring women.
ACTI's Environmental Alliance
Loyola Marymount University has signed on to the Laudato Si' Action Platform, a global initiative inspired by Pope Francis' encyclical On Care of Our Common Home (Laudato Si') that will guide our journey to ecological renewal by 2030.