International Conference – Trust and Dialogue in the Catholic Church: Rethinking Power and Relationship Dynamics

From 13 October 2026 to 16 October 2026

In the wake of recent scandals, the Catholic Church faces a renewed call to become more trustworthy — a call that engages the challenges of cultural transformation and the rising demand for honesty, transparency, and shared responsibility. This journey requires a profound reexamination of how power is understood and exercised within relationships, a task marked by both theological depth and pressing pastoral urgency.

This conference is part of the International Project Towards a Trustworthy Church. The main researchers of this project are Dr. Karlijn Demasure (Saint Paul University, Ottawa, Canada) and Dr. Sheila McMahon (University of San Diego, USA). This conference invites scholars, theologians, pastoral workers, and practitioners to explore how trust and dialogue can serve as foundations for renewing relationships within the Church — among clergy and laity, men and women, institutions and communities, and between the Church and the wider world.

Conference Details

Dates: 13–16 October 2026

Location: Saint Paul University, Ottawa, Canada

Languages: English and French

Keynote speakers present at the conference in person include: Dr. Jim Keenan SJ, Dr. Céline Béraud, Dr. Ivo Aertsen, Dr. Christine Hinze, Dr. Karlijn Demasure, Dr. Léocadie Lushombo, Dr. Annemie Dillen, Dr. Sheila McMahon, and Dr. Szilvia Gyurkó.

Registration: Online and in-person participation

Early Bird Price: $50 CAD Fee

After 1 September 2026: $75 CAD

Register here: https://www.boutique-ustpaul.ca/en/product/cpcs-17-international-conference-trust-and-dialogue-in-the-catholic-church-rethinking-power-and-relationship-dynamics

* Please note: If you are planning on attending both English and French Conferences you will need to register twice. The total for the full conference is $75 (after 1 September 2026), and $50 (Early Bird Price).

** Please do not forget to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) if you are traveling from abroad.

*** Scholarships are available to help assist with cover the conference registration fee. If you wish to apply for a scholarship, please submit a letter of motivation to trustresearch@ustpaul.ca.

The conference will be hosted at Saint Paul University, Main Street 223, in Ottawa, Canada. The University offers a stimulating environment for academic exchange and networking. Contact Inquiries should be sent to: trustresearch@ustpaul.ca This conference is in partnership with the University of San Diego Centre for Restorative Justice.