The First Adeodatus Winter Forum “Canonizing” Tolkien

The Case for Reading Tolkien at All Levels of Catholic Education
An Exclusive Event for Friends of Adeodatus
January 4, 2025
Castle Green (99 S Raymond Ave in Pasadena) from 9 am to 11 pm PST

About the Event

Journey into the enchanting realm of Middle-earth at the Adeodatus Winter Forum Tolkien event on January 4, 2025. Set in the historic Castle Green in Pasadena, this immersive experience promises a day of literary wonder and scholarly insight.

From 9 am to 11 pm PST, delve deep into Tolkien’s rich tapestry of lore and legend. Engage with leading experts as they explore the profound impact of Tolkien’s works on education and culture. Nine carefully curated sessions will illuminate the educational value of Tolkien’s writings, demonstrating why students should follow and reflect on the transformative journey through Middle-earth and beyond together. Breaks throughout the day will provide ample opportunity for fellowship among the company.

The day will culminate with the world premiere of a play by emerging playwrights Benjamin Trull and John Turrentine. Commissioned exclusively for this event, the play weaves a compelling narrative of recent liberal arts graduates navigating the challenges of “real life.”

In the afterglow of this rich entertainment, join us for a celebratory reception. Mingle with speakers, performers, and attendees in a convivial atmosphere worthy of the Shire.

Unable to attend in person? Fear not! The entire event will be professionally filmed and streamed live, ensuring that Tolkien enthusiasts worldwide can participate in this magical experience. All attendees (in-person and virtual) will have access to all sessions and the play premiere both live and until the last days of Arda in the online Forum Library.

Join us at the majestic Castle Green for a day that promises discovery, inspiration, and a celebration of Tolkien’s timeless legacy. Whether you’re a curious newcomer, a longtime enthusiast, or a seasoned scholar, the Adeodatus Winter Forum Tolkien event offers a unique opportunity to deepen your appreciation of one of literature’s greatest visionaries. Reserve your spot today and prepare for an unforgettable journey into the heart of Middle-earth and beyond.

Pre-Forum Celebration

Griffin’s of Kinsale

on the 133rd Tolkien Day: 3-January-2025 (8-11 pm PST)

Celebrate the 133rd Tolkien Day with a live set of songs by The Prancing Ponies, music inspired by Tolkien (Led Zeppelin & Rush), hors d’oeuvres & beverages. Enjoy a night to rival Bilbo’s Long-expected Party!

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The Winter Forum

Castle Green – Pasadena

4-January-2025 (8 am – 11:30 pm PST)

Talks & Panel & Brief Videos
Making the Case for Tolkien in the Canon & in Curricula. In addition to this full day of excellent in-person talks, there will be an additional online day of talks scheduled to showcase the fast-growing international community of Tolkien scholars. We will hear from leaders of Tolkien-focused communities and schools in Brasil, Chile, France, Italy, Spain, Austria, and more!
View Tentative Schedule

The 1st Adeodatus Winter Forum: ‘Canonizing’ Tolkien
Tolkien Day Party (3-Jan-25)
TimeDurationEvent
8:00 PM PST15 minWelcome: Tolkien Day Celebration & Forum
8:15 PM PST15 minSinging Requiem Aeternae [from “The Homecoming of Beorhtnoth”]
8:30 PM PST30 minMusic Set: Misty Mountain Hop – Ramble On – Rivendell – etc.
9:00 PM PST2 hoursParty
‘Canonizing’ Tolkien Forum (4-Jan-25)
9:00 AM PST10 minIntroduction
9:10 AM PST40 minSpeaker 1
9:50 AM PST10 minBreak 1
10:00 AM PST40 minSpeaker 2
10:40 AM PST10 minBreak 2
10:50 AM PST40 minSpeaker 3
11:30 AM PST10 minBreak 3
11:40 AM PST30 minSpeaker 4
12:10 PM PST1½ hoursLunch [on your own in Old Town Pasadena]
1:40 PM PST30 minSpeaker 5
2:10 PM PST10 minBreak 4
2:20 PM PST40 minSpeaker 6
3:00 PM PST10 minBreak 5
3:10 PM PST40 minSpeaker 7
3:50 PM PST10 minBreak 6
4:00 PM PST40 minSpeaker 8
4:40 PM PST10 minBreak 7
4:50 PM PST55 minPanel Discussion & Concluding Remarks
5:45 PM PST2¼ hoursDinner [on your own in Old Town Pasadena]
8:00 PM PST2 hoursPlay: “Passion’s End”
10:00 PM PST1½ hoursReception

Speakers


Brad Birzer
Russell Amos Kirk Chair in American Studies and Professor of History at Hillsdale College
Holly Ordway
Cardinal Francis George Professor of Faith and Culture at the Word on Fire Institute, and Visiting Professor of Apologetics at Houston Christian University
Lee Oser
Professor of English and Catholic Studies at the College of the Holy Cross and the author of four novels
Andrew Seeley
Founder & President of The Boethius Institute and Director of Advanced Formation for Educators & Visiting Professor of Philosophy at the Augustine Institute
Melinda Nielsen
Associate Professor of Classical Literature at Baylor University
Ben Reinhard
Academic Dean and Associate Professor of English at Christendom College
Erik Ellis
Assistant Professor, Education and Classical Learning at the University of Dallas

Register for the Event