Clericalism

The false argument against restoring women to the ordained diaconate—that women cannot image Christ—is the cause of the disrespect for women on every continent.

By recognizing the priority of baptism over the power of orders in matters of governance, Francis raises questions about community and clergy.

Opening instituted ministries to women begins a new reckoning with an ecclesiology that has for a long time divided the Church too simply into clergy and laity.

Pope Francis’s hands-on relationship with lay ecclesial movements is reflective of his own theological and spiritual roots.

The synod in Rome envisions a different Church, one in which ordinary people are heard.

Whistleblowers in the Church are prophetic and necessary. The hierarchy should treat them accordingly.