Phyllis Zagano writes about Pope Francis and women’s work in the Church, including the possibility of ordination as deacons (La Croix International)

Legions of female church workers at every level in parishes and chanceries, at episcopal conferences — and even at the Vatican — welcomed and welcome Pope Francis’ efforts to eliminate clericalism. The general perception that “they” (clerics) do not need “us” (women) seems to be fading. Or is it?

The great diversity of the “church workers” on which the Catholic Church depends fall into two main categories: paid and unpaid. The great majority of paid professional positions are held by clerics. The great majority of volunteer, unpaid positions, whether professional or not, are filled by women. Of course, there is cross-over, but the exploitation of women in what is loosely referred to as “church work” is a scandal that Francis seems ready to repair.

For sure, restoring women to the ordained diaconate may be part of the answer, but it is not the only one. Let us look at three points: 1) Francis’ emphasis on lay involvement in the Church; 2) the problem of clericalism; 3) the possibilities for women deacons.

Read more at La Croix International (July 15)

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Dar Testimonio
“I’m not sure I’m really called to be a deacon, but even the chance to have a platform in front of a parish during mass would be a revelation for folks, especially people who experience gender discrimination. The Church would start to live out a truer version of universality.”
Katie Laskey
Contemplative Leaders in Action -  DC Cohort 2021-23 
Dar Testimonio
“Women have been the caregivers and great support of most churches. Why? Because we deal with the personhood of the ordinary. The everyday matters of living. To me, that is what a deacon is. She extends the Church to the common community: visiting the sick and dying, helping parents with family problems, attending as a lector at Mass, burying the dead, and comforting families.” 
Kathleen Carlton Johnson
Hospice Chaplain
Promotor
“It is time for our Church to acknowledge the role of countless women serving the people of God in positions of ministry and leadership.”
Deacon Guillermo "Memo" Rodriguez
Facilitator of Diaconate Formation for the Archdiocese of Los Angeles

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