Pope Leo XIV and Just War Theory in the Catholic Tradition

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This  webinar will explore Pope Leo’s contribution to Catholic social thought and the development of Just War theory within the Catholic tradition.

Drawing on scripture, theology and contemporary realities, it will reflect on the Church’s evolving understanding of violence, justice, conscience and the pursuit of  peace.

Presenter:      Darius von Guttner Sporzynski
Respondent:  Robert Fitzgerald AM
Moderator:     Andrea Dean

 
 
Darius von Güttner Sporzyński

Darius is Campus Dean at the Australian Catholic University in Canberra and an internationally recognised historian specialising in medieval and early modern Europe, Christianity, the crusades and holy war. His research explores how Christian ideas about war, faith and identity developed within the Catholic tradition. Author of Poland, Holy War, and the Piast Monarchy, Professor von Güttner brings deep historical insight to contemporary discussions about Just War theory, peace, conscience and the moral challenges facing the Church today.

Robert Fitzgerald AM
Robert  Fitzgerald, a lawyer by profession, is currently Chair of Caritas Australia and the NSW Ageing and Disability Commissioner. Previously, Robert has held the roles of Productivity Commissioner, Community and Disability Services Commissioner and Deputy Ombudsman in NSW. From 2012, for three years, he was the inaugural Chair of the Australian Charities and Not-for-Profits Commission Advisory  Board. He was also a Commissioner on the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse, from 2013 to 2017. Robert has served on numerous faith-based and other non-government organisations, including as NSW State President of the St Vincent de Paul Society, National Committee Member of Australian Catholic Relief, member of NSW Catholic Commission for Employment Relations, and President of the Australian Council of Social Services. He is currently on the Board of Emerging Futures Collaborative Ltd. and an Adjunct Professor at the University of Western  Australia.

Andrea Dean
Andrea is Chair of WATAC (Women and the Australian Church) and a long-standing advocate for the full participation, leadership, and recognition of women in church life and theology. She is one of its leading contemporary figures, serving as national chair/president and helping guide the organisation through a period of renewal and public engagement. Andrea has a background in Catholic ministry, education, spirituality, and women’s leadership and is a lifelong advocate for women in education, ministry, and spirituality.

Andrea’s vision was central to the launch of the  'Australian Women Preach' podcast, developed jointly by WATAC and The Grail in Australia. The project showcased  women preaching and reflecting on the Gospel in the lead-up to the Plenary  Council and after. The initiative elevated women’s theological voices and modeled a more inclusive Church.