July 2000      a   l e t t e r   f r o m   t h e   e d i t o r   Because of oppressive patriarchal structures, the new century dawns as “a particularly dark time” for women in the Church, but it is “a time to keep hope alive.” That is the conviction of Sr. Elizabeth Johnson, the eminent feminist theologian who will keynote the CTA National Conference Nov. 4 in Milwaukee. To nourish that hope, we reprint in these pages a selection from Johnson’s 1993 Madeleva Lecture at St. Mary’s, Notre Dame on eco-feminism. God as Creator Spirit is depicted in female symbols, confirming women’s dignity as images of God. We also share (pp. 4-5) the stirring message of hope for women that Johnson and 15 other U.S. Catholic feminist thinkers issued Apr. 29, 2000 at St. Mary’s as the “Madeleva Manifesto.” Finally, for evidence that women are hearing that message, turn to page 6 for photos from recent public actions for women’s ordination. Plan now to be in Milwaukee Nov. 3-5 for CTA Conference 2000. We will be celebrating hope that our Church can yet become an inclusive community for all the “Friends of God and Prophets.” The biblical phrase is the title of Johnson’s new book, a reinterpretation of the Communion of Saints that has room for us all. Bill Thompson
Like the Earth, Women Image the Creator Spirit by Elizabeth A. Johnson, CSJ Feminist theologians speak encouragement to women Actions for women's ordination CTA Regional Contacts Upcoming Dates and Events around the Country Join CTA! CTA Home Page