Freiburg theologians break the silence: priests challenged!

Freiburg theologians break the silence: priests challenged!

nine theology students of the University of Freiburg have applied as priests, which is interpreted as a sign against the discrimination against women in the Catholic Church. This initiative, supported by the Women's Reform Movement Maria 2.0, reflects the desire to stand up for equality and against existing barriers in a traditionally male-dominated institution. The students want to make their career aspiration public and hope to spark a broader discussion about the role of women in the priesthood. Auxiliary Bishop Christian Würtz has noted the applications and has already given the prospect of talking to the students. However, he recognizes that the role of women in the church could expand, but does not see any changes in consecration. SWR reports that Vera Fath, one of the applicants, emphasizes that she and her fellow students complete the same studies as priest.

Felicitas Höing, also in the sixth semester and part of this initiative, expresses her frustration about the continuing rejection of women in the priesthood. You and her fellow campaigners see themselves as an enrichment for the archdiocese. Würtz also refers to the letter "Ordinatio Sacerdotalis" by Pope John Paul II, which explicitly excludes the consecration of women in the Catholic Church. Despite these existing regulations, there is growing pressure on the part of the Catholic communities and believers in Germany to stand up for political and religious equality.

growing support for women in the church

The demands for a greater participation of women in church offices are increasingly heard. The theological faculty of the University of Freiburg is impressed by the campaign of the students. Dean Karlheinz Ruhstorfer criticized the arguments against the ordination of women. A considerable Signal came during the synodal assembly in Germany, where 92% of the delegates and 82% of the bishops voted for a document that asks Pope Francis to examine reform ideas for the consecration of women worldwide. When Bishop Franz-Josef Bode described the acceptance of this basic text as a "historical step", this was very well received. Every step towards more gender equity is welcomed, especially against the background of everyday sexism and discrimination within the church. katholisch.de reports .

Despite the positive developments, Rome has so far not been willing to move in the "women's question". The post -synodals write, such as "Querida Amazonia" by Pope Francis, prove this standstill. From a theological point of view, it is also increasingly being questioned why women are not admitted to the priesthood. The current dogma, which remains withheld access to the priesthood, is on shaky feet, in view of the New Testament tradition, which women know in management functions. Katholisch.de The time and need are great to re -examine the structures in the church and to adapt in view of the social changes.