May 7, 2026 Evening Program
Mathew Schmalz, PhD
Professor of Religious Studies College of the Holy Cross
“Global Catholicism and The Pope”
Biography
Mat is the founding editor of the Journal of Global Catholicism and a professor of religious studies. He earned his B.A. from Amherst College and his PhD in history of religions from the University of Chicago, after volunteering in rural Oklahoma and managing a homeless shelter in the South Bronx. Mat has published extensively on Global Catholicism, theology, and interfaith studies, and his books include Mercy Matter and Understanding our Catholic Neighbors.
A recognized expert, he has contributed to Newsweek, The Washington Post, NPR, BBC and over 400 media appearances worldwide. Mat has conducted research in south Asia and served on multiple editorial boards. He is a devoted husband, father, and lover of Indian cuisine, Star Trek, and Bollywood films.