By Christine Schenk. Published by Orbis Books, 2019. Reviewed by Elizabeth Julian

I had been professed for one year when Mercy Sister Theresa Kane stood publicly before Pope John Paul II asking for women’s equality in the Church — that was in Washington DC in 1979. Now, 40 years on, the Epilogue notes: “Full equality will not happen until the structures of Catholicism themselves are transformed … because in the end it really is about what God wants ‘on earth as in heaven’”. With meticulous care Christine Schenk’s biography details Theresa’s courageous determination to speak the truth in love over many years, leaving the reader with a portrait of an extraordinary faith-filled leader. Sustained by a deep prayer life, Theresa survived persecution from members of the US hierarchy as she pursued her vision of justice and equality for women in the Church and society, particularly in healthcare. 

Although the book is highly detailed, requiring a background understanding of Religious Life and the renewal called for by Vatican II, as well as an appreciation of the difference between US Church climate and that of New Zealand, where bishops and Congregational Leaders engage openly, respectfully and fruitfully, Schenk’s story-telling is such that the reader’s hand is forced to turn the page to see what happens next! A great read for lockdown days.

Tui Motu Magazine. Issue 248 May 2020