In this online presentation, Dr. Jill Plummer will explore the formation of Catholic feminist identity during the post-Vatican II era through examining the work and legacy of women’s ordination and education advocate Sister Betty Carroll, RSM.

The reforms of the Second Vatican Council (1962-1965) ushered in an era of possibility for Catholics worldwide—but not without its challenges. Women religious and lay Catholic women led many of the progressive movements advocating for reform within the church. Among these reforms were broadening the role and education of women religious; a fuller understanding of gender, inclusivity, and feminism; and the ordination of women to the priesthood. The story of Sister Betty Carroll, RSM is just one part of this story. 

In this presentation, “The Formation of a Catholic Feminist Identity: Sister Betty Carroll, RSM,” Dr. Jill Plummer of Sacred Heart University explores the formation of Catholic feminist identity during the 1960s and ‘70s through the life and work of Sister Betty Caroll. An advocate of education and women’s ordination, Carroll served as the president of the Leadership Conference of Women Religious (LCWR) and also held leadership positions with Women’s Ordination Conference, Federation of the Sisters of Mercy of America, and the Sister Formation Conference. Carroll’s life and work also intersected with the inaugural Call To Action conference in 1976.

Through analyzing the emerging Catholic feminist movement of the post-Vatican II era, we may ask: Where does the church still need to go when it comes to feminism, gender equality, and ordination justice?

An open Q&A session will follow Dr. Plummer’s presentation. 

Registration with a $5 fee is required. Register here.