by Helen Costigane

‘In the church and in the academy, too many decisions are made by men only. It is as if the claims of patriarchy have not been disclosed, time and time again. There is no reason for the absence of women. The simple rule that I propose of guaranteeing the presence of women at every deliberation ought to be made known throughout the world. Men ought to insist on it at every occasion. I suggest we call it the Gallant Rule’.(1)

In detailing certain abuse cases, James Keenan notes that women have become more assertive in prosecuting sexual predators. With the case of Jerry Sandusky which came to trial in 2012, the involvement of women came more to the fore.

Dr Helen Costigane is a canon lawyer and a member of the Society of the Holy Child Jesus. She is Programme Director for the MA in Theology at St Mary’s University, Twickenham.