Linacre Centre Conference

The Linacre Centre sends news of its forthcoming conference in Maynooth. The line-up of speakers is very impressive but I hope the others won't mind if I single out the presence of Fr Paul Mankowski SJ. It is a rare opportunity to hear this learned, powerful, and witty speaker on this side of the Atlantic.

Here is the press release:
Sexual and reproductive issues are very much in the news, and high on the political agenda. The Linacre Centre in Oxford (www.linacre.org) is bringing a diverse panel of expert speakers to Maynooth this summer from 16-18 June for a conference on Fertility, Infertility and Gender.

The interdisciplinary conference will explore a range of topics including marriage and celibacy, homosexuality, contraception and STD prevention, IVF and alternative forms of assisted conception. The conference will be opened by the Australian bishop/bioethicist Bishop Anthony Fisher OP; other international speakers include Fr Paul Mankowski SJ, Elizabeth Marquardt, Prof. Luke Gormally, Prof. David Paton and Prof. Alexander Pruss. Dr Kevin O'Reilly will look at Humanae Vitae and chastity, while Dr Phil Boyle will explain NaproTechnology, an ethical alternative to IVF.

It promises to be a very lively occasion, and a timely chance to reflect on a truly Catholic approach to sexual/reproductive ethics. Queries to Gwen McCourt at conference@linacre.org, or on 00 44 1865 610212.
At the Linacre Centre website, there is further information, including the proceedings of the 2007 conference, and a flyer and booking form for the Conference.

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