Towards a Distinctive and Inclusive Theology of Catholic Education Studies

"It is at the grassroots level of parish and deanery, that I first met Professor John Sullivan, some two years ago now. He had accepted an invitation to sit on our new Deanery Synodal Council. As Dean, I was made aware of his particular academic gifts by his former parish priest, but also his extensive involvement both in his own parish and other parishes in the deanery. It is only this aspect of John’s life that I am qualified to speak of, but one could argue it is the most important. I have seen him as a man of many parts; musician, dancer, dish washer, kind listener, being just a few. The picture I am sketching here is of a man who delights to be among his brethren, responding generously to invitations to speak on different topics of contemporary concern in the Church, but simply happy to be part of parish and deanery life. In short, a man who is very much at home among the grass roots. Catholic education has been John’s area of expertise and practice over many years. His academic achievements have been significant. None of this should obscure the fact that he has recognised and sought to live the one thing necessary which animates all else; to turn to Christ, to walk with him and know him better. It is in this light, surely, that the following contributions ought to be read."

Monsignor John Walsh
Dean, Sefton Coast North Parishes, RC Archdiocese of Liverpool