In Memoriam: Stephen Molvarec, S.J.

The alumnus and Clough School faculty member is remembered as a kind and understanding teacher

Boston College and the Clough School of Theology and Ministry are mourning the death of an alumnus and faculty member.

Stephen J. Molvarec, S.J. (Caitlin Cunningham)

Stephen J. Molvarec, S.J., M.Div.`22, S.T.L.`23, an assistant professor of church history in CSTM, passed away unexpectedly on October 24 while visiting the Jesuit community at Le Moyne College in Syracuse, N.Y. He was 46.

Originally from Buffalo, he earned a Ph.D. and M.A. in medieval history from the University of Notre Dame, and a B.A. in history from Canisius College. He entered the Society of Jesus in 2012 and was ordained in 2022.

Fr. Molvarec joined the BC faculty in July 2023 after serving as a visiting assistant professor at CSTM during 2022-23. He taught history at Marquette University for three years prior to coming to BC. An expert on medieval Carthusian monks, he specialized in 12th- and 13th-century religious life as well as the history of medieval cities.

“We are shocked and saddened at the death of Steve Molvarec,” said Clough School Dean Michael C. McCarthy, S.J. “So many of his students have shared with me how kind, generous, and understanding he was as a teacher. All of us, including his colleagues, will miss him deeply.”

On Monday, October 26, a prayer service was hosted at CSTM, and the midday liturgy was offered for him at the Simboli Hall chapel. Funeral arrangements are pending.