In a Time of Zozobra: Looking Back at the Workshop

This event was jointly organised by the Institute for Advanced Catholic Studies at the University of Southern California (USC) and the McDonald Centre for Theology, Ethics, and Public Life.

In December, the McDonald Centre partnered with the Institute for Advanced Catholic Studies at the University of Southern California to convene an invitation-only colloquium at Christ Church, exploring how religious traditions can contribute to democratic renewal amid widespread social disquiet. Taking its name from the Mexican philosophical concept denoting radical uncertainty and disorientation, the gathering brought together scholars, practitioners, and institutional leaders to examine the role of religion, and particularly Christianity, in sustaining pluralistic democratic life.

Participants from both sides of the Atlantic contributed to discussions concerning how to name our contemporary moment, and how to respond with moral courage and theological imagination. Conversations centred around the sharing of examples of how faith communities are reweaving civic trust and building forms of democratic common life, and identified priorities for future research, public scholarship, and practical engagement. The gathering closed with shared reflection on constructive pathways forward. For updates on future collaborations and initiatives, keep an eye on this space.

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