The 2024 Cardijn Lecture, hosted by the Australian Cardijn Institute, presents a rich exploration of Patrick “Pat” Keegan’s legacy as the first lay auditor at Vatican II and a transformative figure in the Young Christian Workers (YCW) movement. This year’s lecture was delivered by Dr. Pat Jones, whose personal connection to Keegan and extensive experience in Catholic social thought bring unique depth to the discussion.
Dr. Jones, the daughter of pioneer English YCW leaders, personally knew Patrick Keegan and was herself a member of the Young Christian Students (YCS) movement. A lifelong advocate for lay engagement, Dr. Jones served as a lay auditor at the 1987 Synod on the Vocation and Mission of Lay People and was a consultor with the Pontifical Council for the Laity.
In 2024, she authored The Cross of the Moment, a groundbreaking report examining the cultural and theological implications of the child abuse crisis in the Catholic Church in England and Wales. The report proposes new synodal and restorative approaches to addressing these challenges at all levels of the Church.
Dr. Jones’ career reflects a deep commitment to Catholic social teaching (CST) and its practical applications. Her doctorate and research at the University of Durham focused on the intersection of CST and the lived experiences of marginalized groups, including women affected by prostitution. She has also served as the first female assistant general secretary of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales and as deputy director of CAFOD, the English Catholic development agency.
In this year’s lecture, titled Pat Keegan at Vatican II: Speaking Out as a Lay Pioneer, Dr. Jones offers profound insights into Keegan’s role in shaping Vatican II documents like Gaudium et Spes and his enduring influence on lay participation in the Church.
Watch the full 2024 Cardijn Lecture.
This lecture is an unmissable opportunity to reflect on the transformative power of lay leadership and the ongoing relevance of the Cardijn vision in the Church and society today. Watch the video and join the conversation!