St Mary’s University is pleased to announce a special conference that will be dedicated to exploring the ongoing relevance of Gaudium et Spes. On the 7th December 1965, Vatican II promulgated the Pastoral Constitution of the Church in the Modern World. It was the last and longest document to come from the Second Vatican Council. It remains central to the Church’s Magisterium and has guided so many aspects of the Church’s life. Catholic Christians must be committed to social justice and to the common good of humanity and our common home. This conference will ponder the ongoing relevance of Gaudium et Spes, with specific reference to the Church’s commitment to Catholic education and social justice.
Confirmed speakers include:
- Archbishop Malcolm McMahan
- Dr Gemma Simmonds
- Dr Anna Abram
- Dr Paul McPatlian
- Professor Stephen McKinney
Call for papers
This conference will explore the theology, legacy, and influence of Gaudium et Spes. It will draw out the way it committed the whole Church to social justice, and that is part and parcel of this is the centrality of Catholic education and the provision of Catholic schools. Paper proposals for short papers (20 -25 minutes, to be held in parallel sessions) that address any aspect of the various strands of Gaudium et Spes would be very welcome. Papers that scrutinise the relevance of this document for Catholic schools and universities (in relation to social justice) will be prioritised. Other proposals, which are more generally about aspects of Gaudium et Spes, will also be considered.
Please send abstracts of up to 300 words to Dr Sean Whittle (sean.whittle@stmarys.ac.uk).
Closing date for abstracts: 31st August 2025.
Notice of acceptance will be by 15th September 2025.
Registration via St Mary’s Events
- Full conference: £175
- Day rate: £65
Unwaged/concessions:
- Full conference: £140
- Day Rate: £45
Contact the conference organisers:
- Dr Sean Whittle - sean.whittle@st.marys.ac.uk
- Ashley Beck - ashley.beck@stmarys.ac.uk
- Raymond Friel - raymond.friel@stmarys.ac.uk
Media enquiries
Press team
020 8240 8262