Schedule

An introductory session considering how themes of dignity have been addressed in postconciliar documents, up to and including Laudato Si’.

A reflection on dignity as a characteristic of being, and dignity as an aspect of doing in the context of means and ends. I ask what it means for creatures to fulfill their potential for dignity, and how an understanding of the importance of diversity and difference contributes to that.

An exploration of biblical and Church teachings on conscience. This session will include some storytelling and consideration of the need for discernment and courage in addressing social injustice and exclusion.

Reflections on questions of belonging and justice arising from the Ontario Catholic school context. How do we deal with marginalization in Catholic schools particularly around the issues of religion, gender and sexual identity? What lessons might arise from the Ontario Catholic school context for the larger Church, and what direction might schools (and Church) take in the future to promote inclusion and social justice?

A brief description of the growth of Catholic Women Speak as a response to the need for all voices to be heard in conversation. This will be followed by interactive small group discussions allowing participants to explore current contexts and the issues around dignity and difference that they personally encounter, along with possible solutions. Topics will be introduced by the speakers and discussed at round tables by participants.

Participants may bring forth questions or reflections that arose from the previous sessions. Presenters may provide greater depth or clarity to topics introduced in the earlier presentations.