Deadline for submission is September 1, 2010.

Coordinator: LaReine-Marie Mosely

Call for Papers:

In a little know essay, Karl Rahner “plead[s] for a certain broadening of the traditional concept of martyrdom.” He continues by stating:

All that is involved is the question whether in this case tolerating and enduring death for the sake of the faith and enduring death in an active struggle for the faith (or for this or that of its demands) cannot be included under the single concept of martyrdom: both types share a wide-ranging and profound content in common, and bracketing the two in this kind of single concept would not deny a lasting difference between the two of them.  

“Active struggle” has certainly characterized the life and witness of black Catholics/Christians and those who have ministered with and for them. 

The Black Catholic Theology Consultation invites proposals around this topic, which takes up the convention theme of “All the Saints” through this broadened conception of martyrdom.  Proposals may focus on individuals or groups who have “endured death” by giving their lives for their sisters and brothers.  Individuals that come to mind include Pierre Toussaint, Peter Claver, Elizabeth Lange, and Theresa Maxis.  Groups worthy of consideration might include confraternities or benevolent societies of black Catholics, the Federated Colored Catholics, and other little-known groups whose faith prompted their commitment to active struggle for black Catholics/Christians.
         
Proposals should be between 200-500 words and include the author’s name, institution, and contact information.  The deadline for submission is September 1, 2010.  Notification of acceptance for presentation will be given by September 24, 2010.  A maximum of three papers will be selected for the session.  Please articulate in the proposal any audio-visual support required.  Authors of accepted papers must submit a 100 word précis by October 6.  Recall that CTSA policy limits presenters to one speaking role on the convention program.  Please send proposals to LaReine-Marie Mosely at lmosely@luc.edu.   Please put the following in the subject line:  BCTC Proposal.