In a modest attempt to increase the inclusion of women in the Catholic Church, Pope Francis has changed church law to allow women to act as readers and altar servers, assisting the priest during services and performing tasks in mass. This step, although small when compared to the many differences between men and women in the church, is a new step towards a more inclusive church. The announcement, which came in a letter Monday, stated that the decision was made after “theological reflection” and that many bishops felt that the change was necessary to respond to the “needs of the times”. Although women fulfilling the role of altar servers nd readers has become increasingly common in many developing countries (including the United States), this new law will prohibit bishops from preventing women from performing these tasks.
Since becoming Pope in 2013, Francis has signaled on multiple occasions that he would prefer a more inclusive church, however, definite steps towards reaching this goal have been few and far between. Additionally, in spite of his openness to more inclusivity, the Pope has stated that he still only considers men are fit for priesthood. For years Franics has appointed commissions to discuss whether women can be installed as deacons. While the first commission failed to reach a dececion and consequently dissolved, the second commission established last year. Those voting to expand the deacon responsibilities to women say the change would help address the priest shortages while those against the change claim it would be a “slippery slope” towards ordaining women to the priesthood. The controversial topic has sparked organized church boycotts and women’s groups have requested Pope Francis allow equal oppurtunities within church leadership roles.
Sources
Comentarios