This conference will problematise any too-simple disjunction between 'religion' and 'spirituality'. The apparent modern contradiction between the two - accompanied by increasing individualisation, polarisation and dangerous collective behaviour - can be helpfully understood in light of René Girard's analysis of modernity and the foundational and regulative function of religion, along with his critique of a newly emerging post-secular sacred. The conference's theme re-considers who we are and might become as homo mimeticus/religious. It seeks a new reading of our unique historical moment, and how we have emerged into it.

For more information, please contact Associate Professor Joel Hodge (National Head School of Theology, Faculty of Theology and Philosophy).

Registration details

Registration categories

Early bird rate ends on 15 April 2025 - all rates are in Australian dollars.

To attend the conference, please choose one of the following:

• $450 (non-COV&R Member) (Approx. €260/$USD273)
• $400 (COV&R member) (Approx. €230/$USD243)
• $350 (student/concession/pensioner, non-COV&R Member) (€202/$USD212)
• $300 (student/concession/pensioner, COV&R Member) (€173/$USD182)

Registration includes meals during the conference, including the opening reception on Wednesday 4 June.

Additional option

• $200 field trip and conference dinner (including transportation from ACU's Rome Campus)
• $70 conference dinner only (no tour or transportation)

*The field trip includes bus transportation and tour of the Papal Museum and grounds at Castel Gandolfo

*Conference dinner includes antipasto, first and second courses, drinks and coffee/donuts. There will also be tribute speeches on the 10th anniversary of René Girard's death

Event contact

Associate Professor Joel Hodge
National Head, School of Theology, Faculty of Theology and Philosophy
Australian Catholic University
joel.hodge@acu.edu.au