Rate My Professor Bob Rice

Dr. Bob Rice serves as Professor of Catechetics in the Department of Theology at Franciscan University of Steubenville, where he also directs the Master of Arts in Catechetics and Evangelization (MACE) online program, heads the Youth Ministry Concentration, and oversees Graduate Studies in Evangelization and Catechesis. He is the director of the university's forthcoming Doctor of Ministry program in Evangelization and Catechetics, set to launch in Fall 2025. Rice earned his PhD in Theology from Liverpool Hope University in Liverpool, UK, in June 2016. He holds a Master of Arts in Theology and Christian Ministry with Certification in Catechetics from Franciscan University of Steubenville, completed in May 1997, and a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Theater from Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida, in May 1994. His academic career at Franciscan University began in 2004 as Associate Professor of Catechetics, progressing to his current full professorship. Previously, from 1997 to 2004, he served as Director of Youth Ministry at Church of St. Ambrose in Latham, New York, and as LIFE TEEN Northeastern Area Coordinator from 2001 to 2004. Rice contributes to campus life as a worship leader for youth and adult conferences since 2005 and as executive producer for Franciscan University web-series since 2014. He participates in the National Initiative for Adolescent Catechesis and advises the Servants of the Savior men's community.

Rice's academic interests center on catechetics, evangelization, and youth ministry, with a focus on proclaiming God's Word, adolescent Gospel formation, and pastoral transformation. He has authored several books, including 40-Day Spiritual Workout for Catholics (Franciscan Media, 2013), Between the Savior and the Sea (bob-rice.com, 2011), The Beginner’s Gospel (Monster Ants Press, 2004), Basic Spiritual Workout (Servant Publications, 2002), and 35 Day Spiritual Workout (YOU! Press, 1998). His extensive publications feature articles in The Sower Review on topics such as 'Proclaiming the Bad News to Teenagers' (2013), 'Not Young Adults, but Emerging Adults' (2012), and 'The Missionary Nature of Youth Catechesis' (2008); contributions to I Believe (Franciscan Media), Shalom Tidings, and Formed Magazine; and scripts for catechetical videos produced by Outside Da Box Productions for dioceses including Wheeling-Charleston. Additional materials include yDisciple series for the Augustine Institute. Through his teaching, writing, and leadership, Rice equips ministers and educators to foster encounters with Christ's love in catechetical settings.