Value, Neurodiversity and Education: SWF Community Gathers in Rome
Members of the Susanna Wesley Foundation and the Southlands Methodist Trust recently took part in a significant international gathering in Rome exploring disability, neurodiversity and theological formation. The conference, Value, Neurodiversity and Education: Reflecting with Edith Stein, was led by Cristina Gangemi, Co-Director of The Kairos Forum and current doctoral researcher with the Susanna Wesley Foundation. Cristina’s doctoral work focuses on disability inclusion in Christian community life, with particular attention to the theology of value and belonging.
The programme brought together educators, theologians, pastoral workers, and church leaders from across Europe, Australia, and North America. Through lectures, workshops, prayer, and shared reflection, participants explored how Edith Stein’s philosophical and theological insights might inform more humane and inclusive approaches to education and formation in Church and society.
The gathering took place across several significant locations in Rome, including the Pontifical Theological Faculty Teresianum and the Church of St Edith Stein. Alongside the formal programme, attendees joined the Wednesday Papal Audience in St Peter’s Square, participating in the wider Jubilee celebrations for educators called by Pope Francis. This offered a powerful shared moment of communion, hope, and public witness to the importance of inclusive education.
A highlight of the week was a reception and book launch hosted at the British Ambassador’s Residence to the Holy See, where Ambassador Chris Trott welcomed participants and guests. The event marked the publication of Dignitas Personae et Amor Dei: Human Dignity and Divine Love. Thoughts and Inspirations from Edith Stein, featuring reflections emerging from the ongoing academic and pastoral work in this field. Cristina Gangemi introduced the launch, situating it within the wider movement towards a more relational, empathetic, and person-centred approach to formation and belonging.
The week affirmed the deep connections between scholarship, lived experience, and pastoral practice, and highlighted the growing international collaboration in disability theology and inclusive pedagogy. The Susanna Wesley Foundation is delighted to continue supporting Cristina’s work and research as it contributes to this vital and expanding conversation.