John C. Cavadini named 2026 Ratzinger Prize recipient

Ratzinger Prize patristic theology St. Augustine John C. Cavadini Vatican

The Vatican has announced that John C. Cavadini, a theology professor at the University of Notre Dame, has been selected as the recipient of the 2026 Ratzinger Prize. The award was chosen by the Scientific Committee of the Joseph Ratzinger-Benedict XVI Vatican Foundation and approved by Pope Leo XIV.

Cavadini is a specialist in patristic theology, with a particular focus on the works of St. Augustine. He also served as the director of the McGrath Institute for Church Life. Roberto Regoli, president of the Foundation, praised Cavadini for his academic competence, pastoral passion, and lifelong ecclesial service.

Cavadini expressed gratitude for the recognition of his dual role as both a man of the Church and a man of academia, citing the 3rd-century theologian Origen of Alexandria as a model. The award ceremony is scheduled to take place on December 19, 2026, at the Apostolic Palace in Vatican City. This marks the 32nd recipient of the prize since its establishment in 2011.