The Courage to Speak Freely

Regimes where open speech, freedom and equality are anathema are prevalent today across the globe. We witness the impact in extremis of this in the current horrific events occurring in Ukraine. Within the Church, the concept of open and honest dialogue championed by Pope Francis, which he describes as parrhesia, is demonstrated by the synodal journey on which he is determined to set the Church. The concept of a pope asking his flock to speak out is a novel one, and one that has encountered some resistance. The model of Church in recent times has been one of an institution with a deep suspicion of open discussion rather than a community where episcopal collegiality is encouraged.

These tensions are explored in the Spring 2022 issue of Studies: An Irish Quarterly Review. The model of reciprocal sharing of views and listening with humility brings challenges to a Church which has been one of an active hierarchy and passive laity for several centuries. Jessie Rogers argues that a return to the primacy of scriptural perspectives brings a richer, more historical and more animated vision of Church; Linda Hogan pays homage to the renowned Irish moral theologian, Fr Enda McDonagh, who exemplified many of the synodal attitudes and behaviours of parrhesia; Con Casey considers the value of theology in the largely secular environment of a university; Martin Henry explores the fundamental tension within Catholic intellectual enquiry - that exploration of the faith is encouraged, yet that same faith must be defended.

Elsewhere, Eamon Maher explores the intersection of religion and literature in the writings of Julien Green; Barry Whelan gives an account of an extraordinary meeting regarding Ireland's neutrality during WWII; and several review articles and book reviews round off an absorbing and pertinent collection.

Studies: An Irish Quarterly Review spring 2022, The Courage to Speak Freely is published by Messenger Publications. Priced at €10.

For further information see: www.studiesirishreview.ie/product-category/default-category/current-issue/