Sr. Ellen Leonard Co-edits a Book for Joanne McWilliam

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Book launch held for From Logos to Christos

This picture taken at the book launch shows, from l to r, David Neelands, Dean of Trinity College and contributor, Lisa Quinn, Wilfrid Laurier University University Press, Deirdre Good, contributor, Kate Merriman, co-editor, Ellen Leonard, co-editor, and Peter Slater, husband of the late Joanne McWilliam and contributor.

"Joanne McWilliam taught me at St. Michael's in my doctoral studies. As a woman in theology and religious studies she mentored many graduate students. I am grateful for her inspiration and friendship over many years," said Sister Ellen of her relationship with Joanne. Sister Ellen co-edited the book From Logos to Christos: Essays on Christology in Honour of Joanne McWilliam with Kate Merriman. "The editing was a work of love," she said.

Joanne McWilliam was the first layperson to receive the PhD in Theology from the University of St. Michael's College in 1968. She served as a teacher and mentor for many women during the next forty years.

The fourteen essays on Christology by friends and colleagues are a fitting tribute to a woman who pioneered in the academic study of theology and religious studies, preparing the way for other women in these fields. The book launch took place on November 4 at Seeley Hall, Trinity College, Toronto, with many of Joanne’s colleagues, family, friends and a number of our Sisters.