For Immediate Release
November 13, 2012
Contact: Holli Emore, 888-503-4131, CHS@cherryhillseminary.org
COLUMBIA, S.C. – Cherry Hill Seminary is saddened to learn of the passing of noted scholar, author and women’s spirituality movement leader Patricia Monaghan.
Academic Dean Wendy Griffin said, “We mourn the loss of poet, visionary, and rigorous scholar Patricia Monaghan, PhD, whose contributions to those who venerate the Goddess cannot be overstated, from her early work in helping to develop Women’s Spirituality, through to her founding of the Association for the Study of Women and Mythology. With an Irish heart and a Pagan soul, Dr. Monaghan found the mythic in the mundane and took joy in the exploration. We are deeply grateful for the books and poems she shared with us. ‘So many stories…each worthy of telling.’ (Seasons of the Witch, Monaghan, 2007)”
Dean of Students Candace Kant reflected on her recent work with Monaghan: “It was from Patricia Monaghan’s many books that I discovered the breadth and depth of Goddess. I was very honored to be able to meet her and spend a few days with her and her devoted husband Michael in Black Earth, Wisconsin, which they so loved. Working with Patricia and Michael on the Brigid Anthology this past year was a pleasure, and I know it was a labor of love for them. I am deeply saddened by her loss, but am thankful for the legacy of scholarship and love for Goddess that she left with us.”
“She believed in my writing and what I had to say,” said Aline O’Brien, a Cherry Hill Seminary director and longtime instructor. “Patricia opened doors for me, giving me unique opportunities to contribute to the Pagan literature and dialog. She was supportive of Cherry Hill Seminary from our early days, allowing us to feature her as a guest lecturer in our 2006 Second Sunday online lecture series. Both of us being Irish-American, we shared a love of Irish culture.”
In honor of Monaghan’s immeasurable contributions to scholarship Cherry Hill Seminary will name a scholarship in her memory, the Patricia Monaghan Scholarship.
Monaghan’s husband, Dr. Michael McDermott, has served on the Board of Directors of Cherry Hill Seminary since 2007. We extend our sincere condolences on the loss of his beloved Patricia whose joy in living will be missed by all.
Cherry Hill Seminary is the leading provider of education and practical training in leadership, ministry, and personal growth in Pagan and Nature-Based spiritualities.
For further information contact Cherry Hill Seminary at 888-503-4131 or CHS@cherryhilllseminary.org
