In recent discussions about the role of women in the Church, Luxembourg Cardinal Jean-Claude Hollerich has initiated a significant debate by stressing the need for a sincere dialogue on advocacy.
09.08.2024
Cardinal Jean-Claude Hollerich, general relator of the Synod on Synodality, speaks about study groups authorized by Pope Francis to examine the issues raised at the Synod on Synodality, during a press conference at the Vatican on March 14, 2024. (Photo credit: Lola Gomez/CNS.)
In recent discussions about the role of women in the Church, Luxembourg Cardinal Jean-Claude Hollerich has sparked a significant debate by stressing the need for sincere dialogue rather than lobbying. A central figure in organizing Pope Francis’ Synod of Bishops on synodality, Hollerich’s remarks offer a thought-provoking perspective on how the Church should approach the complex and often contentious issue of women’s participation in leadership and government roles.
Cardinal Hollerich’s position is clear: the Church should not be a place for lobby groups pursuing specific goals. Instead, he advocates an approach based on prayer, open discussion and sincere listening. “Lobbying is not part of the Church’s culture; nor should it be,” he explains. His call for dialogue underlines a deeper understanding that the issues surrounding the role of women in the Church are complex and require a differentiated approach.
The question of women’s participation in the leadership of the Church – in particular the possibility of women serving as deacons or priests – was one of the most hotly debated topics of the Synod on Synodality. This multi-year process, which began in 2021, was marked by extensive debates and consultations at various levels. At the first meetings in Rome, discussions on women and LGBTQ+ inclusion were among the most emotional.
As the Synod prepares for its second session in Rome from October 2 to 27, the preparatory working document has explicitly excluded these controversial issues and entrusted them to specialized working groups for further discussion. This decision reflects the difficulty of reaching consensus on such contentious issues. One of these working groups, composed of members of the Vatican Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith and the General Secretariat of the Synod of Bishops, will study theological and canonical questions related to women’s ministries. However, details of its findings have not been disclosed.
While recognizing the importance of these discussions, Cardinal Hollerich stresses that changes in church practice regarding the role of women cannot be implemented in isolation. He points to the differences in perceptions of these issues across continents. In Western Europe, there is a strong push for women’s access to ordained ministry, while other regions may not share this urgency. Hollerich warns that implementing changes based solely on the perspective of one region could lead to division within the worldwide Church. “This is not a change the Church can make easily, and it is not a change that can be made in just one part of the world; it would tear the Church apart,” he warns.
Rather than pushing for predetermined outcomes, Hollerich suggests that the church’s path forward must involve an “open dialogue” that seeks the guidance of the Holy Spirit. He envisions a process in which diverse viewpoints are heard and considered, leading to a deeper understanding of how women can fully participate in church life and decision-making without necessarily seeking ordination. “Perhaps in that dialogue women will say, ‘Oh, but yes, I understand, I want to fully participate and also participate in decision-making, but maybe I don’t have to be a priest to do that,'” he suggests.
Despite the polarization of current church debates, Hollerich remains optimistic about the potential for constructive dialogue. He notes that the synod was marked by a commitment to genuine dialogue, even if there were different points of view. “Of course, there are people from the right at the synod, people from the left, etc., but there are people who also feel committed to genuine dialogue in spirit through the method of dialogue,” he explains.
Hollerich’s reflections come in the context of an annual pilgrimage for altar boys to Rome that he recently attended. The event did not specifically address the issue of women’s roles, but he acknowledged their importance for many young people. Hollerich stresses the importance of giving voice to these voices, stating, “For me, it is important to listen to them.” He stresses that the Church must remain open to evolving perspectives, especially in response to the insights of the younger generation.
Cardinal Hollerich’s call for dialogue rather than lobbying represents a valuable approach to addressing the issue of women in the Church. His perspective encourages a thoughtful and inclusive process that respects the diverse views within the worldwide Church. As the Synod continues, Hollerich’s emphasis on prayer, discussion and mutual listening offers a way to navigate complex issues while maintaining the unity and integrity of the Church. — Core
