About John Thornhill

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John Thornhill
is a Marist Father with an international reputation as a writer and lecturer in theology. He was a member of the International Theological Commission (1980-1985), appointed by Pope John Paul II. For several years he was a member of the Anglican Roman Catholic International Commission (ARCIC II). In recent years he has been giving lectures to parish audiences throughout Australia and in neighbouring countries. From 2002 to 2009 he worked in collaboration with Patrick Lim, a Diocesan Priest in the Archdiocese of Perth, now parish priest of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Hilton, to record and produce his lectures in videos. He has written 21 Unpacking the Emmaus Series booklets to be used in conjunction with the viewing of the presentations. He has published a number of books and numerous articles. He has recently completed another 3 lectures "Introduction to Catholic Theology (Revelation, Faith & Theology). He is now retired and residing at the Marist Fathers' new retirement complex "Montbel" in Hunters Hill, NSW, but he continues to write the occasional articles and has just completed a book on Christopher Dawson's interpretation of history which he hopes to have it published.

The Australian Catholic University awarded John Thornhill with its highest honour, Doctor of the University (Honoris Caus) at its Sydney ceremony for graduating Education Students on 8th May 2007.

ACU National Vice-Chancellor Professor Peter Sheehan AO said Dr Thornhill had made theology extraordinarily accessible to Australians from all walks of life.

"John Thornhill is one of Australia's foremost theologians; a quiet, unassuming man who has affected real and lasting social change during a career spanning more than 50 years," Professor Sheehan said.

"John is the author of six books including Making Australia, which was shortlisted for the Order of Australia Literary Award in 1992. He is also a founding member, past president and life member of the Australian Theological Association. In 1980, he was appointed by Pope John Paul II to the International Theological Commission.

"Australian Catholic University is delighted to bestow its highest honour upon Dr Thornhill in recognition of his major contribution to adult faith education through the disciplines of philosophy and theology. His parish-based community work with the migrants of Melbourne's western suburbs, his long and outstanding teaching career, and his commitment to making the teachings of the Church accessible to as many people as possible, are testimony to his deep commitment to the intellectual development of the Catholic church."

(ACU Media Release 7th May 2007)