The Catholic Herald puts Fr Kenneth Sicard, President of Providence College in Rhode Island, under interrogation.
What was your career break?
When my predecessor, Fr Brian Shanley, stepped down, I was elected as president. Note that I had been his Executive Vice President for 15 years, so the transition was natural.
What’s your favourite Bible verse?
From the Benedictus: “In the tender compassion of our God, the dawn from on high shall break upon us.” (Luke 1:78)
Which church or cathedral has the most meaning to you?
Our College chapel, St Dominic Chapel, and our Priory Chapel.
What holy music do you keep returning to?
My Dominican community chants the psalms of Morning and Evening prayer daily.
Who has been your greatest spiritual influence?
Ss Dominic and Thomas Aquinas.
Your favourite saint and Pope?
St Dominic and Pope Francis.
How has your faith shaped your work and career?
My life as a Dominican priest shapes and informs every aspect of my professional life as President of Providence College.
Where would you like to go on pilgrimage?
I visit Rome regularly, making it a point to include numerous religious sites. I will continue to do this.
Can you remember which book or film had the most influence on you at college?
That was a long time ago! From the Development of Western Civilisation programme, the religious works that influenced me most were Augustine’s Confessions, Dante’s Divine Comedy and Milton’s Paradise Lost. I also enjoyed and was inspired by the 1966 film A Man for All Seasons, based on the story of Sir Thomas More.
What is on your reading list?
Mindless fiction to read on vacation, as well as What We Hold in Trust: Rediscovering the Purpose of Catholic Higher Education by Briel, Goodpaster and Naughton.
