Two down, one to go

Recently Fr. Quang Nguyen passed the second of the three tests required for him to move forward in his doctoral studies in economics.  After taking the third exam in July, he can submit his proposal for his thesis and begin research.

When Fr. Quang was a student in theology he never gave thought to studying economics.  “But when I was ministering in Houston, I started to have questions,” he said.  “So many social justice concerns are tied to economics, they go hand in hand.  I wanted to get a better understanding of economics so that I could understand social concerns in a wider context.”

He took several classes at St. Thomas University in Houston including macro and micro-economics.  The classes did give him a better understanding of the subject, but also gave him many more questions.

“So I asked for permission to do further studies,” said Fr. Quang.  In December, 2006, he earned a master’s degree in economics from Fordham University in New York.  His focus was on neo-classical economics.  He is now doing his doctoral work at Claremont Graduate University in Claremont, Calif.  Much of the past year has been spent in the classroom but after the July exam he will focus on research.

How does a doctorate in economics fit into his vocation as an SCJ?

“The quick answer is that economics affects all facets of our life,” he said. “Thus, having a better understanding of economics will enable us to live more justly and peacefully.  Is this not what an SCJ is all about?”

He gave the example of the need for a just wage for workers.  “We need to take into consideration various aspects from both demand –– employers’ –– and supply –– employees’ –– sides of the economic equation,” he said.  “Instead of creating an adversarial relationship with business you need to speak from wider economic picture.”

Fr. Quang continued, talking about the work of today’s missionary.  “A missionary goes to a country not just to build churches,” he said, “but moreover to bring the love and mercy of God.  We bring social justice through our teaching and example. A better knowledge of economics expands the horizon of our ministry.  It is a practical way to better people’s lives.”

Fr. Quang said that he looks at the example of Fr. Leo John Dehon who worked with the business leaders of France to bring about social justice for workers.

“A knowledge of economics gives us the tools needed to speak to these issues, to bring theology and our SCJ spirituality to the marketplace and society as a whole,” said Fr. Quang.