Michael E. DeSanctis, Ph.D.

December 2021
We continue to meet at the Erie Yacht Club. We will be in the lower level dining area for the next few meetings. Meetings begin at 6:00 pm with a social hour and dinner, followed by our program/speaker.

Our Dinner Menu:
We will have a choice of two entrées: Mediterranean Stuffed Pork Loin with Bruschetta Sauce -OR- Chicken Cordon Bleu, Herb Roasted Red Potatoes, Fresh Vegetable Medley, Bayside Salad with Cranberries, Pecans, Cucumbers & Feta Cheese, Balsamic, Ranch Dressings, Rolls and Butter, Coffee or Tea, and Crème de Menthe Sundaes with Chocolate Drizzle.

Our Guest Speaker:
Michael E. DeSanctis, Ph.D.
Michael E. DeSanctis, Ph.D. is Professor of Fine Arts and Director of the Honors Program at Gannon University in Erie, PA. He writes widely on Catholic church architecture and serves as a liturgical designer and consultant.

Topic:
A Proper Seat for Emmanuel

For reservations; please E-Mail the Torch Club Secretary at secretary.erietorch@gmail.com.

"A Proper Seat for Emmanuel"

<p>His presentation is A Proper Seat for Emmanuel: Personal Reflections on the History and Meaning of the Christmas Crèche. This lavishly-illustrated presentation will examine the crèche-building activities of Dr. DeSanctis, retired professor of fine arts and theology at Gannon University. The presentation will make note of the central role St. Francis of Assisi (1182-1226) played in the development of Nativity scenes of the sort that have become fixtures within Christian churches and households during the seasons of Advent and Christmas. It will also describe the way in which Dr. DeSanctis has adapted such scenes to the needs of modern audiences to perpetuate the underlying message of Christ’s birth.</p>


Please join us on December 1st, 2021 at 6:00 pm, for our pre-dinner cocktail and chat time and remember to bring your friends and acquaintances. Reservations are required.


Please remember to make your reservation at secretary.erietorch@gmail.com.