The Public Heritage Institute (PHI) at Regis College invites proposals for papers and panels that address the topic of “Women, Religion, and Empowerment.” The conference will be held on the campus of Regis College in Weston, MA on April 12 and 13, 2013.

Religion provides individuals with not only spiritual guidance, but also serves a source of strength and empowerment. While both men and women embrace religion, their roles are often different; whether in regard to religious history, philosophy, rituals, or leadership opportunities, women are often forced to find their own way and redefine the religious experience. The Sisters of St. Joseph, founders of Regis College are the source of inspiration for this conference. They have been a source of empowerment for women, both academically and spiritually, and exemplify this theme.

Presenters might consider, but are not limited to, the following questions:

•How have religious institutions reacted to feminist calls for change?

•How do religious institutions with a male dominated hierarchy incorporate the female perspective?

•In what ways has history forgotten the role of women in religion?
•What are the ways in which art, music, or literature play a role in connecting the three (women, religion, and empowerment)?

Paper and panel proposals from every discipline are welcome. Please send abstracts (250 words maximum) and a one page CV to katina.fontes@regiscollege.edu by March 1, 2013.

http://www.h-net.org/announce/show.cgi?ID=200973