Leading Theologian joins CAFOD

We warmly welcome leading Catholic theologian, Professor Celia Deane-Drummond on secondment from Chester University where she is currently the Director of the Centre for Religion and Biosciences

She joins our Spirituality Team for the next 12 months, where she will be working as a Theological Accompanier. Her role will include writing reflection pieces, training and public speaking as well as advising on theological issues.

"Theological reflection needs to be informed by people's own lives, understanding the problems and the issues they face," says Celia.

“I am here to listen to CAFOD staff across England and Wales, as well as those working in the overseas offices, CAFOD partners, volunteers, supporters and campaigners.

"Deepening our own relationship with God is crucial in understanding how we relate to others and the natural world."

Professor Deane-Drummond has 20 years experience in the area of environmental justice and doctoral studies plant science and in ecology and theology.

But as a Catholic she says that she is also deeply concerned about poverty and injustice, and her time with CAFOD will give her the opportunity to learn more about development and global justice issues and to share with the organisation insights from her own years of reflection.

“I also have a background as an agricultural botanist, exploring how best to grow better crops, this practical background informs how I view theology, it must be grounded in real life.

"Faith must not stand still, and joining CAFOD is a natural extension of my work. I will both listen and contribute to what it means to think theologically with regard to CAFOD's campaigning and development work," says Professor Deane-Drummond.

Linda Jones, CAFOD's Spirituality Team leader, says: "CAFOD is proud to work with someone of Celia's calibre and academic reputation. I am sure that the quality of her research and the depth of her insight will be invaluable to CAFOD over the next 12 months."

With regard to Pope Benedict XVI forthcoming new encyclical on the global economy and poverty, Professor Deane-Drummond says: "I wait with interest to read the encyclical, and see how Pope Benedict has built on what has been said by previous Popes on the world-wide economic order and human flourishing."

Media: For further information please contact Nana Anto-Awuakye on 0207-095-5560 / 07799 477 541 or email nanto-awuakye@cafod.org.uk

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