Towards a Theory of Queer Thriving in Catholic Education—A Response to Dr. Seán Henry

Abstract

This response to Dr. Henry’s chapter draws out the positive potential in aligning Catholic education with the theme of ‘queer thriving’. It is explained that a positive response can be given to Henry’s argument precisely because it allows movement beyond the pastoral care paradigm. This is because in shifting the starting point (from where LGBTQ+ lives are problems or issues to be ‘dealt’ with) it allows Catholic schools to begin by framing the inclusion of LGBTQ+ students in more positive terms. Part of this response is to speculate what the idea of queer thriving might mean in practical terms for Catholic schools. One practical challenge would be to reframe school policy statements in relation to LGBTQ+ students, and one way of doing this is briefly outlined.