Michael Dante
Chaplain-In-Residence - McCarthy 304
Michael Dante is the Chaplain-in-Residence in McCarthy Hall. For the past 10 years, he has been immersed in the Ignatian tradition. Through his reading, study, and retreats, he has envied its key tenants such as “Finding God in All Things” and “Contemplation in Action.” A transformative part of Michael’s own spiritual journey took place in May 2001 when he underwent the Spiritual Exercises in their 30-day format. He describes the experience as “re-foundationing” and what led him to a career change. In May 2006, Michael graduated from the Washington Theological Union with a Master’s of Divinity degree and a Master’s of Arts in Systematic Theology. Currently, he is pursuing his Ph.D. in spirituality and culture at the Catholic University of America. In addition to being a student, he will also be a Teaching Fellow there.
Michael brings a wide variety of gifts and talents to his position. He indicates how his time as a hospital chaplain helped prepare him for this ministry as the patients came from a variety of faith traditions and were at various points in their own spiritual journeys. He also has experience in retreat work, spiritual direction, preaching, and music ministry. Michael’s hobbies include hiking, swing dancing, playing trumpet, attending the theater (especially Shakespeare), card/board games, and exercising. Yet, above all these activities, Michael truly enjoys good conversation with family and friends. Gathering over a meal and discussing life and the human experience is something he savors. Michael is delighted to be participating in the spiritual life of the residence and hopes his presence will have a positive effect on those he meets.