Ratzinger Circle of Alumni


The Ratzinger Circle of Alumni is an initiative by former doctoral and post-doctoral students of theologian Joseph Ratzinger. The Alumni is composed by former students of the universities of Bonn 1959–1963, Münster 1963–1966, Tübingen 1966-1969 and Regensburg 1969–1977. The former students, most of them distinguished professors today, meet with their professor annually in order to discuss and study with their teacher important theological issues while celebrating their devotion to what they consider a special responsibility for the spiritual heritage of their teacher.

Background

The first meeting took place in 1978 and is repeated annually. The long tradition was not interrupted during the Papacy of Ratzinger, despite his role and commitments. This initiative led the alumni to the creation of a foundation, the Ratzinger Foundation and later an award, given to theologians and philosophers every two years.

Members

The 44 members of the Ratzinger Circle of Alumni are: