Dr. Stephen Calme teaches a variety of theology courses, from those that explore the nature of God (TH101: Religion and Human Experience; TH241: Jesus, Human Face of God), to courses that examine human relationship in light of Christianity (TH148: Friendship and Its Limits; TH206: Dating, Marriage, and Family), to courses that focus on ethics and morality (TH148: Food Justice; TH311: Race and Religion), and others. Dr. Calme came to theology through a love of deep thinking, eye-opening experiences of Christian service, and a faith life of prayer and community. He brings these lenses to his pedagogy, attempting to create classrooms where theology challenges the mind, inspires moral action, and opens students to deeper relationship with ultimate meaning. While teaching largely from a Catholic perspective, he encourages students to consider how the ongoing questions and answers of this religious tradition might help them reflect on their own traditions and beliefs, whatever they may be.

Dr. Calme serves as the co-chair of Carlow’s University Faculty Assembly for the ’25-’26 and ’26-’27 academic years. Thanks to a grant from the Network for Vocation in Undergraduate Education, he is part of a group of faculty and staff developing retreats to help students reflect on what they are called to do in the world and who they are called to become. During his time at Carlow, he has also worked on the Compass (core curriculum) Committee, co-led the Carlow Forum (formerly University Council) gatherings to promote shared governance, and participated in initiatives aimed at overcoming racism and improving dialogue across all differences. Dr. Calme is a fellow of Carlow’s Atkins Center for Ethics and a fellow of Pittsburgh’s Beatrice Institute, and he meets with the bishop of Pittsburgh regularly as a member of the Diocesan Academic Council. He is a proud graduate of the McDarby Institute, the university’s year-long introduction to its Mercy heritage.

Outside of Carlow, Steve helps to run a young(ish) adult group at St. Mary Magdalene Parish, enjoys exploring the city on bike, and attempts to help his wife renovate their old house.

Education

PhD in Religious Studies, 2021, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI; Master of Theological Studies, 2015, Boston College School of Theology and Ministry, Chestnut Hill, MA; Master of Education, 2005, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN; BA in English, 2003, Boston College (Chestnut Hill, MA)

Affiliated Programs

Coordinator, General Studies degree program
Coordinator, Liberal Studies degree program
Campus lead, Network for Vocation in Undergraduate Education

Professional Memberships

Member, College Theology Society
Member, American Academy of Religion

Research Topics

Catholic Social Teaching
Bernard Lonergan, SJ
Racial justice
Kenosis and conversion
Epistemology
Dialogue across differences
Role of prayer and spirituality in understanding hot-button social issues
Ignatian spirituality
Catherine McAuley and the heritage of the Sisters of Mercy
Religious competence among healthcare professionals