Am I My Brother’s Keeper? Lessons from Genesis for Today’s World

• IN PERSON
• ONLINE on ZOOM

Whitley Event Center at Oblate School of Theology
285 Oblate Drive, San Antonio, TX 78216

This event is FREE!

The annual Montalbano Lecture provides a platform for deepening the understanding of Scripture and its relevance to contemporary life. In this year’s lecture, Bishop Sylvester David, O.M.I., will delve into the timeless narrative of Cain and Abel (Genesis 4:1-16). This ancient story, filled with themes of conflict, responsibility, and reconciliation, offers profound insights into the human condition and society’s enduring struggles.

Through a careful exploration of this text, Bishop David will illuminate how its lessons can guide us in addressing the fractures of modern-day communities. Reflecting on the call to be our "brother’s keeper," he will offer biblical and pastoral insights on fostering compassion, justice, and solidarity in a divided world. This presentation invites participants to consider how Scripture continues to inspire faithful action in the face of today’s moral and social challenges, aligning with the Montalbano Lecture’s mission of making Scripture come alive for our times.

Bishop Sylvester David, O.M.I., was born in 1953 in Durban, South Africa. He is a member of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate, having joined the congregation in 1984, professing his perpetual vows in 1988, and being ordained a priest in 1991.

Bishop David holds an Bachelor of Arts Honours Degree in Counseling Psychology from the University of South Africa, a PhD on the prologue of John's Gospel (2012), a postgraduate specialization in Community Psychology from the Jesuits’ Creighton University in the United States, and a Licentiate in Biblical Theology from the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome.

Throughout his ministry, Bishop David has served in various capacities, including parish vicar, parish priest, and formator at the Cebula House of Formation. He was also a lecturer and later president of St. Joseph’s Theological Institute in South Africa.

In 2019, Bishop Sylvester David, O.M.I., was announced as the President of the Oblate School of Theology (OST) in San Antonio, Texas. However, before his installation, Pope Francis appointed him as Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cape Town, assigning him to the titular see of Gunugo. Redirected to serve in South Africa, Bishop David began working closely with Archbishop Stephen Brislin, clergy, and laity to address the needs of the archdiocese. Later that year, in December 2019, he was also appointed to the OST Board of Trustees, further solidifying his connection to the institution and its mission.

Known for his collegial leadership style and commitment to collaborative ministry, Bishop David continues to build relationships and foster community within the Church. He draws inspiration from his formation in the Durban Archdiocese, where the motto "community serving humanity" shaped his approach to ministry.

Bishop David enjoys the Cape Town area, which he visited frequently before his appointment, and asks for continued prayers as he serves the people of the archdiocese.

The Montalbano Scripture Chair Lecture is a prominent event hosted by the Oblate School of Theology (OST) in San Antonio, Texas. It is associated with the Montalbano Chair of Scripture Studies, which was established to enhance biblical scholarship and teaching within the OST community. The lecture series invites distinguished biblical scholars and theologians to present on topics that deepen understanding of Scripture and its application in contemporary contexts.

The event is an opportunity for participants, including students, clergy, and laypersons, to engage with thought-provoking insights into biblical texts and themes. These lectures typically address current issues in theology, spirituality, and biblical interpretation, often connecting the ancient wisdom of Scripture to modern challenges.

Host or Publisher Oblate School of Theology