Jason Winkle
- Hometown Unionville, IN
Degrees Pursuing at Saint Meinrad
- Master of Arts (Theology)
When did you begin your studies? Summer of 2017
What influenced you to begin studying for a master’s degree in theology?
God has been very patient with me as this journey to pursuing a degree in theology has been life-long. I truly believe it started when Fr. Kevin Haines took me, as a high school student, to visit Saint Meinrad. His love of God and his ability to explain the faith was one of the key reasons I began reading theology and, ultimately, received a degree in philosophy.
Looking back now, I am able to see how God continually put people and opportunities in front of me to deepen my faith. A second key individual in my spiritual journey was Major Eric Verzola. Eric was an Army officer teaching at West Point during my tenure as a civilian faculty member. Through the many theological discussions we would have between teaching our classes, I quickly discovered how much I didn’t know about my faith.
Eric’s faith and knowledge of the Catholic Church inspired me to want to learn more. Years and many prayers later, the calling I faintly heard as a high school student has grown louder and is finally being fulfilled.
What else are you doing besides seeking a master’s degree (work, family, volunteer work)?
Outside my studies, my life is focused on family, parish and work. My wife and I are expecting a baby girl in May and are busy helping our sixth-grade son adjust to life as a middle schooler. We are blessed to live close to our extended family, so the cousins get to spend a lot of quality time together.
St. Agnes Parish plays a key role in my life as well. I’m a member of the parish council and faith formation commission, and I teach adult religious education. I’m also a rookie at St. Paul Street Evangelization in Bloomington. I currently serve as the CEO of the YMCAs in Bloomington, Indiana, where I have the opportunity to live my faith as part of my career.
Favorite saint and why?
I attended St. Ambrose parish and grade school in Anderson, Indiana, and was obviously introduced to St. Ambrose early in my life. I have such wonderful memories of those formative years and I distinctly remember how fascinated I was in the life of St. Ambrose.
I have a deep respect for the discipline he displayed in studying theology and scripture and his commitment to simplicity and penance. He was a courageous defender of the faith. The more I learn about his influence on the Church, the greater my admiration grows.
Favorite Scripture verse and why?
1 Corinthians 10:31: “So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God.” I find this verse to be a powerful reminder to me to work against my own ego and to focus on glorifying God in all that I do.
Hobbies?
I have a 12-year-old son so my hobbies currently include Minecraft, Star Wars and swimming. When he happens to visit his grandparents or does an overnight with a friend, my hobbies migrate toward reading, hiking and the martial arts.
What aspect of your coursework has been most rewarding?
I have found meaning and value in every course – even the very demanding ones. The quality of the instruction and the course content have surpassed my every expectation. I leave each weekend excited about my choice to pursue this degree.
What aspect of your coursework has been most challenging?
The most challenging aspect is finding the time to complete the preparatory work and assigned papers between professional and family commitments.
What plans, if any, do you have after you receive your degree?
I’m open to the direction that God leads me. I would love to merge my Ph.D. in education leadership with theology to create a leadership program for parish council members and other lay ministers, focused on evangelization and emotional intelligence.