We’ve all seen banner ads — those rectangular ads hovering around the edges of the internet, enticing us with tropical resort deals and discounts on our favorite jeans. A banner ad is not exactly something you’d expect to change your life — but that’s precisely what happened to Denise Clare.
It was an unassuming ad for the Master of Theological Studies – Franciscan Theology that caught Denise’s eye, when she was not-too-seriously contemplating a life beyond the corporate work world.
“October of 2021 — probably right around the Feast Day of St. Francis of Assisi — I was reading my ‘Saint of the Day’ email from Franciscan Media,” she recalls. “I never pay attention to banner ads, but at the bottom of the email was an ad for the MTS-FT program, and in big, bold letters it said, ‘100% ONLINE.’”
This, it turned out, was meant to be. “I thought, ‘My goodness!’ — because in the back of my mind, I had been thinking about pursuing a graduate degree,” Denise says. “I wasn’t quite sure in what, but I was leaning towards theology.”
The online format of the program was a major factor in Denise’s next decision. “There was no hesitation,” she says. “I didn’t require any time to think about it. I immediately contacted [the school] and began the application process.
“So it was fortuitous! People tell me there are no such things as coincidences.”
A professed Secular Franciscan, Denise had always been passionate about learning, but her professional life had taken her far from academics. With a background in chemical engineering and years of experience in benefits administration, entering a theology program seemed like a significant pivot, at least on paper. However, Denise’s love for St. Francis — instilled through lifelong family traditions — guided her toward an earnest exploration of Franciscan theology. “I wanted something with academic rigor,” she recalls. “I wanted to go deeper.”
This desire — and that well-timed banner ad — led her to apply to the Franciscan School of Theology at USD unique MTS-FT program. For Denise, the program’s emphasis on the teachings of St. Francis and other theologians like John Duns Scotus was transformative. Despite her lack of a religious studies or philosophy background (which some graduate theology programs require) Denise felt welcomed by the supportive environment. “The fact that this program didn’t have a philosophy prerequisite made it even more inviting!” she says, laughing.
The program’s accessibility helped her overcome initial apprehensions, especially as a self-described shy introvert with social anxiety. Denise thrived in the online format, finding her voice in written discussions with fellow students and instructors.
One of the most impactful aspects of the MTS-FT program was Denise’s capstone project, which gave her an opportunity to reflect on her deep personal connection to Franciscan theology. In her project, titled Enlightening the Darkness of Our Hearts, she explored the teachings of Blessed John Duns Scotus, specifically his perspective on the Incarnation. Scotus argued that the Incarnation was God’s plan all along — not simply a reaction to human sin but a reflection of God’s love for creation. Denise’s capstone took the form of a series of five articles written for lay audiences, emphasizing the positive and life-affirming nature of the Incarnation. “I wanted to communicate these dense theological ideas in a way that people wouldn’t be intimidated by, but instead feel invited to learn more,” she explains.
Using a narrative technique, Denise wrote her articles from the perspective of a young college student studying abroad in Assisi, eager to share her newfound understanding of the Incarnation with her family back home. By focusing on the concept of God’s love rather than sin — and communicating this revelation through the eyes of someone learning in real time — Denise sought to challenge traditional views of atonement and invite readers into a deeper appreciation of God’s intentions for humanity. “It was such an opportunity to share these ideas,” she says. “I hope others will come away thinking, ‘This is wonderful news!’”
Denise’s journey through the MTS-FT program was not without its challenges, but the support of her instructors and peers made all the difference. “Each of our instructors was really invested in our success,” she recalls, emphasizing the collegial and collaborative nature of the program. Despite her initial fears of being the oldest student in the cohort, Denise found a diverse and respectful community of learners. “We were all different ages, from all over the world, and not everyone was Catholic,” she notes, “but we learned from each other.”
Looking ahead, Denise isn’t sure where her degree will take her, but she knows it will involve writing. She’s already published articles in St. Anthony Messenger and has become a mentor for new MTS-FT students. “I want to continue sharing what I’ve learned,” she says. “The journey doesn’t end with graduation.”
Denise’s story is a testament to the power of following one’s passion and embracing the unexpected opportunities that come along the way. Her experience in the MTS-FT program has not only deepened her understanding of Franciscan theology but has also helped her find her Franciscan voice — a voice she’s eager to share with others.
To learn more about this innovative program, please visit the program page and if you are ready like Denise was, connect with an enrollment advisor today.