Kim S. Mendoza
Enhancing the Participation of All Actors in Teaching and Governance: Towards a Polyhedric Catholic Church
The project problematizes the hierarchical form of communion (or unity) that foregrounds the structure, exercise, and reception of authority in the Roman Catholic Church in fields of teaching and governance. I argue that lay participation in this authority is not realized to its full extent and disregards their agency. The goal of this project is to enhance this participation by negotiating the conditions by which this authority operates and create new structures of authority grounded on an alternative form of communion using the metaphor of the 'polyhedron'.
Why this topic matters to me
I have always been intrigued by themes related to the study of the Church. I navigate towards fundamental and tensive topics, recently on structures and governance. As a researcher, my objective is to offer a balanced and critical analysis of my research topic, aiming to achieve greater clarity that can inform and strengthen decisions or policies of stakeholders, and mediate between binary positions.
Why I believe it is important to society
Studying the themes of 'authority' and 'participation' in a polyhedric communion sheds light on the constant struggle between the continuity of tradition and the dynamism and co-responsibility for the Church's mission inhered in the thrust of baptism. My project aims to expand the conversation by highlighting opportunities to integrate these two elements, enabling them to coexist and cooperate in an integrated whole, with the center reimagined away from the apex.
Impact of the Ladies of Bethany Chair on my life and career
Being a scholarship holder of the Ladies of Bethany Fund has allowed me to be on the receiving end of the rigorous training offered by the Faculty of Theology and Religious Studies in KU Leuven. Moreover, it has widened my professional network for possible collaborations in research, gain new experiences and mentors. I am very grateful to receive this support in my studies to do global theology.
The difference I hope my work will make in the world
I aspire to offer a convincing argument that affects how current questions and tensions emerging from the Synod on Synodality (2021-2024) can be disentangled. This is my small contribution to the Catholic Church who is responsible for my religious formation.
Publications