The Tablet Podcast with Ruth Gledhill and Liz Dodd

Source: The Tablet

The first in a new Tablet podcast series of 10 podcasts with Ruth Gledhill, assistant editor of The Tablet and former religion correspondent of The Times, and Liz Dodd, a former Tablet journalist who is now a sister of St Joseph of Peace (CSJP), discussed the latest developments on women in the Catholic Church, Donald Trump's first weeks as US President and top Catholic movies.

Liz Dodd, who is based in Nottingham Diocese, explained that the charism of the CSJP is "peace through justice," and so much work is with migrants and refugees, homeless and peace initiatives. She recently addressed an audience of 450 people at the United Nations in Geneva on the issue of migration and the ministry she undertakes with her sisters. Her intervention formed part of a panel discussion which preceded the UN premiere of the award-winning film 'Cabrini' at the Palais des Nations. Whilst set nearly one hundred years ago, the film touched on many issues relevant to the Church today, including human dignity, human rights, migration, health, equality of women and education.

The topic of 'Women in the Church' was discussed. There was some disappointment that the ordination of women is not on the Vatican agenda after featuring prominently in the Synodal process, but Liz Dodd pointed out that some women have been appointed to positions of authority in the Church under Pope Francis. She hoped they would not be token appointments with limited power. "We have to accept that the Church moves slowly," she said, asking, "are we a synodal Church?" There was a look at women's diverse roles in their parishes that were regarded as crucial to building community. Ruth flagged up that The Tablet is in the early stages of planning a conference on 'Women in the Church.'

There was discussion about "the bewildering pace of changes across the Atlantic under Donald Trump." Liz Dodd expressed admiration for Episcopal Bishop Mariann Budde, who closed her sermon at the National Prayer Service at Washington National Cathedral on 21 January with calling on Trump, who was sitting in front of her, "to have mercy upon the people in our country who are scared now". Liz Dodd felt, "she spoke out for migrants and vulnerable people while looking Trump in the eye."

The Tablet recently looked at the top 20 Catholic movies. Liz Dodd reported not being a fan of 'The Sound of Music' which was listed near the top. She was surprised that 'Lord of the Rings' didn't get a mention.

The podcasts will air every two weeks. See link below.

www.thetablet.co.uk/podcasts/the-tablet-podcast-with-ruth-gledhill-and-liz-dodd-episode-one-womens-ordination-trump-best-catholic-films/