Society B. J. F. Holds Discussions on Blasphemy and Executive Authority in Presidency
In the heart of February 2025, the oldest campus organization at Holy Cross, the Benedict Fenwick Debate Society, rekindled its tradition of fostering intellectual discussions and critical thinking. Established in 1846, the society has stood as a staple of campus life for over 150 years before taking a hiatus of approximately 20 years.
The society's first debate of the year, held on November 2nd, took place in the Levis Browsing Room of Dinand Library, while the second debate was hosted in Hogan Campus Center (Hogan 320) near the Hogan Ballroom on February 17th. The debates hosted by the society aim to provide a space for students and community members to engage in open discussions on various topics, encouraging thoughtful debate and the exchange of ideas.
During the first debate, the topic under discussion was "Resolved: Teaching Heresy Undermines Catholic Education." The affirmative team, consisting of Liam Murphy '25, Sebastian Kostrzewski '25, and Marc Capobianco '25, presented their arguments, while the negative team, comprised of John Zimmermann '26, Michael Schwerdt '27, and Daniel Capobianco '25, countered with their perspectives.
The second debate, held on February 17th, focused on the topic "Resolved: The Scope of the President's Power has become too great." The affirmative team for this debate consisted of Elliott Stalls '28, Ian Sykes '28, and Patrick Ryan '27, while the negative team included Willard Hick '27, Ella Murray '27, and Nora Kelly '27.
The debates were judged by Dr. Kate Bush, a visiting assistant professor of the history department, and Professor Donald Brand of the political science department. Dr. Bush is a medievalist and expert in medieval hagiography, while Prof. Brand specializes in American politics and public administration, and is co-director of the college's Charles Carroll Program.
While there is no direct record of debates on "heretical doctrines in Catholic institutions" or "presidential power in the United States" being held at Holy Cross in February 2025, the college continues to engage students in debates and intellectual events, as seen in a recent debate program on logical fallacies and various student activities in 2025. Catholic doctrine discussion at Holy Cross is reflected more in liturgical homily resources rather than debate forums.
As the Benedict Fenwick Debate Society continues to host debates regularly, students and community members alike are encouraged to participate and engage in thoughtful discussions on a wide range of topics. The society's return to campus has undoubtedly reinvigorated intellectual discourse at Holy Cross, offering a platform for students to develop their critical thinking skills and engage in meaningful discussions.
- The Benedict Fenwick Debate Society, founded in 1846 and a cornerstone of Holy Cross campus life, offers education-and-self-development opportunities through debates, fostering personal-growth and critical thinking.
- In the community, the society's events, such as intellectual discussions on topics like teaching heresy and the scope of presidential power, stimulate learning and the exchange of ideas.
- Faculty members, including Dr. Kate Bush and Professor Donald Brand, serve as judges in these debates, providing students with insight from their areas of expertise – medieval hagiography and American politics, respectively.
- The debates hosted by the Benedict Fenwick Debate Society this February not only revitalized the campus but also continue a tradition typifying Holy Cross, as seen in past intellectual events and student activities.
- By participating in these debates, students can further their science, education, and personal-growth, enriching their campus experience.
