Visiting Priest Got Master’s Degree and More at College
Fr. Christian Schwenka
A Master’s Degree in Classical Education Leadership was just one kind of education a Nebraska priest received at Benedictine College in Atchison, Kansas.
He also experienced the joy that comes from bringing college students into the Church.
Benedictine College has been extremely blessed over the last couple of years to have Fr. Christian Schwenka as the college’s assistant chaplain. As he continues his vocation, he plans to leave Benedictine with his Master of Arts in Classical Leadership (MACL) as well as many cherished memories.
Fr. Christian began his time as a Raven in Fall 2024 as the assistant chaplain to Fr. Ryan Richardson. Meanwhile, he was also devoted to Benedictine’s MACL and OCIA programs. Through guidance from his bishop, he was encouraged to contribute to the Benedictine community while also receiving an education.
“My bishop asked me to study education administration. When he had heard about this program, it was near to his heart because he converted to Catholicism through the great works of literature. I got excited because I’ve always been a big reader,” said Fr. Christian.
“I’ve always wanted to read difficult books and great books of literature,” he explained, “…but I always felt I needed a guide or a reason, and the MACL program provided that.”
Being a major influence at the college, Fr. Christian attests that through his classical education, it has shaped how he directs his vocational work.
“How I preach, how I teach—I think that’s been shaped by classical leadership in that way.”
“There are some classes here that I would say are the best classes I’ve ever taken—and that’s saying a lot. I’ve been in school for a long time. But what’s made it transformative has been the people—both professors and students,” he said.
As Fr. Christian spent time pursuing a Master’s degree, he also established firm and personal relationships with students across campus. He was in charge of the OCIA process for the Benedictine community, and he was honored to see young people make the decision to give their lives to Christ. Being able to work with students while they join the church and receive the Eucharist, he recognizes this and the OCIA students as his “joy.”
Through Fr. Christian’s leadership, individuals across campus have been affirmed and reconciled in their faith and his enormous responsibility was completed with grace and humility.
Benedictine College and its students appreciate Fr. Christian for his humble leadership, exceptional character, and lasting impact on the college community. As he continues his vocational journey, the College proudly celebrates this next chapter in his priestly ministry.
Founded in 1858, Benedictine College is a Catholic, Benedictine, residential, liberal arts college located on the bluffs above the Missouri River in Atchison, Kansas. The school is honored to have received a top 10 ranking by U.S. News & World Report, to be ranked in the nation’s 10 most-recommended by The Wall Street Journal, and named one of the top Catholic colleges in the nation by the Newman Guide. It prides itself on outstanding academics, extraordinary faith life, strong athletic programs, and an exceptional sense of community and belonging. Benedictine College is dedicated to Transforming Culture in America through its mission to educate men and women within a community of faith and scholarship.
