On the Excommunication of Kate Kelly

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W O M E N ’ S O R D I N A T I O N C O N F E R E N C E

Vol. 37, No. 1 $2.00

Spring/Summer 2 0 1 4 A Vo i c e f o r W o m e n i n t h e C a t h o l i c C h u r c h On the Excommunication of Kate Kelly

t 6:30 pm on June 22, I joined over and decided to excommunicate her, which, and the doctrine of the priesthood. 100 Mormons, mostly women, on like for Catholics, is considered the most se- You must be truthful in your com- the lawn of the Church of Latter- rious punishment levied by the institu- munications with others regarding A tional hierarchy of the church. matters that involve your priest- Day Saints (LDS) in Oakton, hood leaders, including the admin- Virginia. Inside Kate followed her conscience istration of Church discipline, and the church were you must stop trying to gain a fol- three men and heart when she started lowing for yourself or your cause deciding the fate and taking actions that could lead of Kate Kelly, Ordain Women, building a others away from the Church. founder of the groundswell of feminist voices Kelly responded to the news, “the decision organization, within the Mormon Church. to force me outside my congregation and Ordain Women, Erin Saiz Hanna and Kate launched in 2013, Kelly in Washington, D.C. continued on page 5 working for August 2013 The letter to Kate stated: equality for women Our determination is that you be ex- in the LDS church. communicated for conduct contrary INSIDE For three hours, we sat vigil as we waited to to the laws and order of the Church. hear if Kate would be excommunicated for This means that you may not wear From the Executive Director ...... Page 2 her advocacy so similar to our work at temple garments or contribute tithes WOC. We prayed. We sang. We gave testi- and offerings. You may not take the News & Notes...... Page 3 monies. And we waited some more only to sacrament, hold a Church calling, learn that the outcome would not be an- give a talk in Church, offer a public Ministry of Prophetic Obedience . . . Page 6 nounced until the following day. On Mon- prayer in behalf of the class or con- Our Bodies, Our Blood ...... Page 7 day, Kate’s former ecclesiastical leader in gregation in a Church meeting, or Virginia, Bishop Mark Harrison, contacted vote in the sustaining of Church of- Reflections on Pope Francis’ her by email to inform her that the all-male ficers. These conditions almost al- First Year...... Page 8 panel of judges who tried her in absentia ways last at least one year. If you convicted her on the charge of apostasy show true repentance and satisfy What Do We Do With a the conditions imposed Closed Door?...... Page 10 below while you are no longer a member, you Upcoming Events ...... Page 13 may be readmitted by Book and Film Reviews ...... Pages 11-12 baptism and confirmation. In order to be considered for read- Save the Date mission to the Church, you will need to Gender, Gospel & demonstrate over a pe- Global Justice riod of time that you have stopped teach- Philadelphia ings and actions that Sept. 18-20, 2015 undermine the Church, its leaders, Vigil for Kate Kelly in Oakton, VA, June 2014: (L-R) Ciara Chivers, Cathy Jaskey, Kate McElwee, Erin Saiz Hanna, Jeannette Mulherin, Katie Breslin NWNC NL Summer 2014 444419_Layout 1 8/7/2014 5:20 PM Page 2

From the Executive Director

This newsletter is filled with one amazing NewWomen, NewChurch is published story after the next. I hope that you find it three times a year by the Women’s Ordination both informative and inspiring. Our cover Conference (WOC). WOC works for the story tells a story close to my heart. Kate ordination of women as deacons, priests, and Kelly, my friend and amazing feminist ac- bishops into an inclusive and accountable Roman tivist, was recently excommunicated from Catholic Church. the Mormon Church for advocating for Editors women’s ordination in her faith tradition. Kate McElwee Her story is continued with a powerful theo- Erin Saiz Hanna logical perspective told by Rev. Jane Via on Diana Wear page 7. Send address corrections and all correspondence to: Kate Kelly is just one of many women of in- Erin Saiz Hanna spiration highlighted in this edition of New- WOC National Office Women, NewChurch. One page 2 you will P.O. Box 15057 meet Sister Vivian Ivantic who, on her 100th Washington, DC 20003 Dear WOC membership, 202.675.1006 birthday, made a special wish for women’s [email protected] Hope this letter finds you enjoying your ordination. On page 6, you will read about summer. Nancy Meyer’s call of prophetic obedience. I have some new, exciting, and important Then on page 10, Tracy Garrison-Feinburg changes to report. Earlier this month, shares with us her story, aptly referred to as National Board of Directors WOC’s physical office moved a few blocks “what to do with closed doors.” Jeannette Mulherin Marilu Agular away to a space within Dignity Washing- President On page 7, Kate McElwee recalls our recent Marion Flynn ton’s office building. Dignity is a commu- Tracy Garrison-Feinburg events in Rome during the anniversary of Carol O’Rourke nity of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, & Ordinatio Sacerdotalis. Thank you to the hun- Vice President Transgender Catholics who also work for Sheila Peiffer dreds of WOC members who sent their let- Alan Klonowski justice and peace in our church and we are ters. Your letters were received by a Treasurer Merylee Shelton delighted to share space with them. Our representative of the Vatican’s CDF (the Jane Via, RCWP postal address will still be PO Box 15057, Margaret Johnson Congregation for the Doctrine of Faith), and Secretary Washington, DC 20003. Erin Saiz Hanna you helped make this action a success by ac- Executive Director In addition to this physical move, I am tively participating—sharing your stories, pleased to announce that Dorothea Schurr and voicing your opinions on this topic so has joined the WOC staff as our new, part- near and dear to our hearts. National Advisers time administrative assistant. Dorothea is a While in Rome we also filmed our upcoming part-time graduate student at George video project, “Vatican: It’s a Man’s World.” Roy Bourgeois Andrea Johnson Mason University’s School of Conflict Thank you to all who donated to this Elisabeth Schüssler Theresa Kane, RSM Analysis and Resolution. In her free time feminist, educational project. We are in the Fiorenza she fences, travels, and tries to keep up her Anthony Padovano final stages and look forward to sharing it Jeannine Gramick, SL Chinese language skills. Dorothea brings a with you. Donna Quinn, OP Celine Goessl, SCSC great deal of expertise and joy, and we are Rosemary Radford happy that she will be able to assist WOC In closing, thank you your prayers, activism, Harry R. Halloran, Jr. Ruether and contributions to WOC Your feedback is in our mission. Welcome, Dorothea! Feel Mary E. Hunt free to reach out and say hello to her at critical in making NewWomen, NewChurch a [email protected]. forum for public discussion about the women’s ordination movement and the As Dorothea joins us in DC, we also say ar- church and world we envision. Send your In principle and practice WOC values and seeks rivederci to Kate McElwee (Conmy). Kate a diverse membership. There shall be no barriers thoughts and suggestions to me at to full participation in this organization on the will be working for WOC full-time from [email protected] Rome. As you may recall, Kate spent sev- basis of gender, race, creed, age, sexual orienta- tion, national origin, or disability. eral months in Italy last winter organizing, blogging, and networking for us. Kate will Blessings, A subscription to NewWomen, NewChurch is in- continue to serve as our Associate Director, cluded in the WOC membership fee of $45. WOC strengthening and growing our campaigns is incorporated under 501(c)(3) as a nonprofit organization. Contributions are tax deductible ac- on both national and international levels. cordingly. Make sure to follow Kate’s adventures on the WOC blog, The Table. WOC archives, including microfilms of Erin NewWomen, NewChurch, are held at Marquette Kate also got married this summer and will University. For more information, contact Philip be using her new name, Kate McElwee, Runkel at the Department of Special Collections [email protected]. P.S. Save-the-date for Gender, Gospel & & University Archives, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI 53201-3141, 414.288.5903, or Global Justice in September 2015. You won’t [email protected]. want to miss this fantastic conference and WOC’s 40th anniversary celebration (see Copyright 2014-2015 page 3 for more details). Women’s Ordination Conference All rights reserved

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News & Notes Centenarian Benedictine Woman Religious is Honored at Her Jubilee Benedictines are known for valuing humility. permitted to preach like Mary Magdalen did and After spending eight decades in the monastery, as priests are permitted to do so now. Sister Vivian Ivantic has perfected the art of hu- “I feel strongly that Pope Francis will start the di- mility. aconate for women and that we will have In honor of her 80th Jubilee and 100th birthday, women deaconess in a short time.” Sister Vivian Ivantic's Benedictinecommunity “We are so short of ordained male priests,” she gave a donation to WOC recognizing her pas- reflected. “I feel that because of the edict of Pope sion for women’s equality in the Roman Catholic John Paul II, Pope Francis will probably not try to Church. When the Chicago Tribune sent a reporter ordain women to the priesthood, but the next to cover the story of her birthday last August, pope’s hands may not be so tied.” she chose to deflect the attention. Instead of sharing her own story, she focused her remarks She sees the lack of women’s leadership in both on the need for women’s equality in church and church and society as an impediment to justice society. for women and girls throughout the globe. “Half the population of the world is female and we are Sister Vivian recently shared her passion for deprived,” she decried. women’s equality with New Women, New Church. “It is long overdue that women have a place in Despite the challenges, she believes firmly that Benedictine Sister Vivian Ivantic on her 100th birthday the church’s leadership,” she remarked. justice will come for women. “I believe that very, very sincerely. It means much to me and it has to “Mary Magdalen was the first apostle,” she said. come.” She hopes that women will someday again be

we stand, an awareness of Your life and Save-the-date: Gender, voice within and around us. We listen, Gospel & Global Justice clothed in the sacred garments of the Good News of Jesus the Christ. We listen, Philadelphia, Sept. 18 – 20, 2015 assured that You have formed and gifted our hearts and minds for all that calls us WOC WOC is excited to announce that we are forward. We listen, believing with grati- turns 40! hosting Women’s Ordination Worldwide’s tude, that you have prepared us for this There will (WOW) Third International Conference in moment in history when women shall be a special conjunction with WOC’s 40th anniversary stand firmly and fully in any and every anniver- in Philadelphia in September 2015. Advo- dimension of ministry. cates for women’s ordination from around sary party the world will gather to explore the essen- on Friday Help us, those of us who are planning tial links between the equality of women in evening in this important conference, and those the Roman Catholic Church and creating a honor of WOC’s 40th anniversary. Were who plan to participate in its offerings, to just society in the light of the gospel mes- you at the first WOC conference in Detroit drink deeply of Your wisdom and vision sage. We will celebrate, be inspired and 1975? We want to hear from you. Email Erin as revealed in the gospel. May the gospel demonstrate our commitment to challeng- at [email protected]. messages assist us as we gather from around the globe to create a conference ing unjust discrimination. Pope Francis in Philadelphia: Just a few that will offer ways to seek and proclaim, days after this historical gathering, the Vati- The conference will take place over three and thereby reveal a pathway of justice can’s World Meeting of Families will take days, Friday through Sunday, September for women and men, their children, peo- place in Philadelphia from the 22nd – 27th. 18 – 20, 2015 at the Philadelphia Marriott ple of faith everywhere, and for our liv- Pope Francis is expected to attend. WOW Downtown Hotel and Conference Center. ing planet that nourishes all life dwelling will hold a vigil in preparation for the meet- upon it. Our hope and our belief is that We are expecting up to 1,000 participants– a ing after Sunday’s liturgy (September 20— Your justice will arise anew in each per- combination of WOW delegates and mem- plan to stay an extra day if you are able). bers, other Catholic reform groups, theolo- son attending this conference, and that gians, students, feminists from many faith Financial support: We are currently in the this same justice, in the power of love, traditions, and supporters and advocates of process of submitting grants and looking will fill willing hearts with courage and women’s ordination from around the for donors or corporate sponsors. If you are commitment to carry forth love’s light world. Registration will open October 2014. able to help in this area, contact Erin at around our planet to wherever and for [email protected]. whomever is in need of light, truth, and Our aim is to have a selection of speakers justice. Help us and all people whom we from all corners of the world who will re- Keep up-to-date: Get the latest updates on serve to immerse ourselves in the gospel. flect on the theme of gender, gospel and womensordinationworldwide.org or on Amen. global justice. As well as the headline Facebook at bit.ly/wow2015fb keynote speakers and panels, we will also Pray: As we prepare for this monumental host small workshops. A form for work- and critical conference, we are mindful that shop proposals will be available September Your Spirit, Loving Creator, has awakened 2014. Consider submitting your workshop in us and in those upon whose shoulders plans.

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Report from Rome Vatican Official Receives Letters Calling for Discussion of Women’s Ordination Kate McElwee

n the 20th anniversary of Ordinatio Sacerdotalis, Pope John Paul II’s apostolic letter used to exclude Owomen from the priesthood and close the discussion “definitively,” Women’s Ordination Worldwide (WOW) delegates from the U.S., England, and Poland delivered more than 700 letters to the Vatican’s watchdog office, the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith (CDF). Personal letters calling for a discussion of women’s ordination were received by a top Vatican official, who accepted the letters within the CDF and said, in English: “This is amazing.” At a press conference earlier that day, the following remarks were shared: “Women’s Ordination Worldwide encourages Pope Francis to stop making Jesus the Vatican’s partner in gender discrimination. Ordinatio Sacerdotalis is an outdated, fallible and painful document created by his predecessors to diminish the leadership of women. We are asking Pope WOW Advocates celebrate the successful delivery of over 700 letters to Pope Francis Francis to open the doors of dialogue to talk with us about inside the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith (CDF) women’s ordination.” On this anniversary, WOW knocked on the door of the Vati- can, and for the first time the door cracked open. Written in various languages, these testimonies offered a clear voice to the stories we know and carry in our hearts. This door opening was a first of what we hope is a full entry into our own home and possibly the welcoming mat to substantive and honest discussion on women’s ordination. We have no idea what response we’ll get from these letters, and expectations are, of course, low given past experience with Vatican officials on this issue, but we experienced significant excite- ment actually being received by a CDF prelate. We were left feeling a little less fear circling St. Peter’s. Many who wrote to Pope Francis chose to remain anonymous, likely because they have church jobs and would risk their employment status if they went public, but others gave permission to share their letters. Here are some highlights: Alicja Baranowska, Miriam Diugnan, Kate McElwee, and Erin Saiz Hanna at a WOW “I have read and listened to theological arguments against press conference in Rome, May 22, 2014. women’s ordination and nothing can convince me that God really cares about the anatomy of the person representing Jesus’ presence among us. Women should be allowed to preside at the altar and proclaim the Good News and bring God’s love and grace to all humankind.” Uta Hutnak “The exclusion of women has become a scandal to both the faithful and to outsiders. Jesus Christ himself is, in fact, being presented as a misogynist. The credibility of Jesus’ message of true equality and of genuine liberation from all human shackles, stands or falls with the Church changing its untenable position.” John Wijngaards “A refusal not to dialogue about women’s ordination indi- cates there is no strong theology supporting exclusion. It’s a cowardly defense mechanism to avoid the issue.” Robert and Patricia Johnson “The truth [that women can and should be ordained] can sustain dialogue. The truth can only be found by listening Prefect to the CDF receives the letters calling for discussion on women’s ordination, continued on page 14 “This is amazing.”

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On the Excommunication of Kate Kelly...continued from page 1 community is exceptionally painful. Today is a tragic day for my family and me as we process the many ways this will impact us, both in this life and in the eternities. I love the gospel and the courage of its people. Don’t leave. Stay, and make things better.” Over the last year I have gotten to know Kate and watch her organization flourish. Kate followed her conscience and heart when she started Ordain Women, building a groundswell of feminist voices within the Mormon Church. She created a safe space for Mormons to speak freely about gender inequality in their religion and to challenge the sexist traditions that exclude women from ordination simply because of their biology.

While our religious traditions and More than 50 cities in 17 countries held solidarity vigils for Kate Kelly. WOC staff attended a vigil in Virginia. creeds are different, our stories

and struggles for equality in our priest present, according to a statement Despite the attempts to silence those who denominatins are similar. from the diocese of Innsbruck, Austria. challenge church law on women, we know This excommunication took place as dele- from experience that the inappropriate use gates of Women’s Ordination Worldwide of excommunication as a means to punish were gathered in Rome for the 20th an- those who challenge sexism cannot and will While our religious traditions and creeds niversary of Ordinatio Sacerdotalis. not stop the call for women’s equality in are different, our stories and struggles for Even with excommunication being all too our religious institutions. There is a famous equality in our denominatins are similar. saying in the social justice movement that Over lunch last summer we dreamt up common for us, hearing the news of Kate’s official excommunication filled me with so says “they can crush a few flowers but they “Equal in Faith” and on August 26th, Na- cannot hold back the springtime.” Whether tional Women’s Equality Day, we hosted an much sadness and anger all at once. I have gone through this grieving process before in the Mormon Church or Roman Catholic interfaith prayer service and fast in solidar- Church, movement for women’s equality is ity with women of different faiths who — for Rea Hudson and Elsie McGrath who were ordained by Roman Catholic Women- unstoppable and on the right side of his- challenge the patriarchy that oppress tory. them. It was only the beginning of what priests and then both harshly excommuni- would be become a great bond between cated by Archbishop Raymond Burke in WOC will continue to stand in solidarity sister organizations. 2007; for Sr Louise Lears who attended that with Kate, the members of Ordain Women, ordination was put under the penalty of in- and all those who bravely challenge sexism Excommunication of women’s ordination terdict; for Fr Roy Bourgeois who was dis- in religion. This excommunication affects supporters is nothing new to us Catholics. missed by his Maryknoll community for us all. Just this past May, Martha Heizer, the head refusing to recant his support of women’s Erin Saiz Hanna, WOC executive director. of the reform international movement We ordination; and for all Roman Catholic Are Church in Austria, and her husband, Womenpriests who were excommunicated Gert Heizer, were excommunicated by the via news in the Vatican newspaper in May Vatican for celebrating Mass without a 2008.

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Ministry of Prophetic Obedience By Nancy Meyer

he well received. I was filled with both excite- me with the opportunities for pastoral min- beginning of ment and a renewed commitment that istry and spiritual direction that I felt called this story is filled my heart and being to be part of a to do. The parish was young and growing T church that had come alive. During those with a variety of people. I grew to love the not unlike the story of many years, I also studied at Creighton Univer- people as they shared their lives, their young women sity in Christian Spirituality with a focus in heartaches, their struggles, their commit- born in the 1940s, spiritual direction. Those classes and col- ments and their broken commitments. My 50s, and 60s. I was leagues widened my horizons and formed creative energies were challenged and a girl born to a me in the spirit of a God who is freeing and thrived in this environment. My priest- good Catholic loving. hood had emerged in this setting. Nancy Meyer family, the fourth With my next move, I embarked on new It was during a Holy Saturday Night Vigil child and the second youngest. Like my territory and became the associate vocation that I was struck by the realization that I siblings, I attended a Catholic school that director for the Archdiocese of Cincinnati. I had walked with these people through was filled with postwar baby boomers. faced the new challenge of developing and their life struggles, commitments, and faith I attended a convent boarding school in In- implementing a formation program and journeys, and yet I could only be an on- diana and it was a challenging adventure, if then moved from the university to a theo- looker as they received the sacraments from not somewhat overwhelming someone else. The con- at times. The three and half flict of joy and emptiness, years as an aspirant went of completion and ab- quickly, and soon my eighteen sence, was present that classmates and I took the pos- evening when we were tulant outfit. celebrating Christ’s new life. I was still sitting in The Second Vatican Council the agony of the empty had just ended and most of tomb! the teenagers that I was in the novitiate with were looking Following that experience, with eagerness toward a re- my only brother, mother, newal of religious life and and father all died within liturgy. The new theological a short time of each other. articles promoted Eucharistic In the midst of all this loss, liturgy in the vernacular, I was becoming unsettled scripture studies, married with my life. My Francis- priests, and even an openness can community invited toward ordaining women to me to consider a position the priesthood. The changes on the congregation’s as a junior sister were Leadership Team. At that painfully slow, yet we had Meyer, who will serve as bishop of the Roman Catholic Womenpriests' Midwest region, is same time, I felt unsure of great hope that we could help succeeding Bishop Regina Nicolosi, who is retiring. whether or not to stay in change both religious life and religious life, and so my the church. feelings would not allow me to consider ad- logical setting. This new job allowed me to ministration, and I discerned the call to I was formed by my assignment to teach recognize my call to priesthood and also leave my congregation. It was a right and high school biology, physical science, and see the black hole of non-acceptance due to good decision. algebra and it expanded my worldview. At my gender. I found in myself the profound the same time, Sisters created Archdiocesan desire to be an ordained priest as well as Several years after I had left that commu- Religious Associations to discuss the saw that I had many of the qualities we nity, I sat in a retreat chapel looking out changes and implementations brought on were looking for in the men who would be into the ocean. The gospel of the day was by Vatican II. Workshops abounded on the ordained. Yet the door was closed to me by Peter walking on water. I heard the call, spirit of the founders, the new liturgy, and the church that I was serving just because I "Come.” What did that mean? No clue! the Vatican II documents. Intergenera- was a woman. I experienced a mixture of A few weeks later, a friend walked into my tional discussions were a common occur- emotions to this denial of the church: anger, office and stated emphatically, “You must rence. I became active in these rejection, and depression. watch this Nancy. You absolutely must organizations which helped me develop After my work in Cincinnati came to an watch this.” It was a video of Bishop Patri- skills in leadership, public speaking, com- end, I attended Washington Theological cia Friesen who is an ordained Roman passionate listening, and ways to work Seminary for one year in the hopes that or- Catholic bishop from South Africa. I was with congregational leadership. dination would open for women. That was riveted by Patricia’s words and her invita- In 1975, I was appointed vocation director an enriching and challenging time and the tion. She would be at the Call to Action for my Franciscan community. I traveled depth of the call continued to move deep conference in Milwaukee the next Novem- widely, organizing and presenting pro- within me. At the completion of that year I ber. I knew I had to be there! grams and retreats at parishes, high schools needed to undertake a full-time ministry At Call to Action I was intent only on meet- and universities. The college campus team position. ing Bishop Patricia Friesen and going to of priests, sisters, and brothers in Indiana I was hired as a pastoral associate at a Roman Catholic Women Priests (RCWP) where we all preached the homilies were parish in Speedway, Indiana. It provided continued on page 13 6 New Women, New Church • Spring/Summer 2014 NWNC NL Summer 2014 444419_Layout 1 8/7/2014 5:20 PM Page 7

Theological Perspectives Our Bodies, Our Blood Feast of Corpus Christi By Jane Via

oday, WOC invites us to stand with press their despair in irreverent song, re- rearticulate core Mormon faith and pre- our Mormon sisters. Kate Kelly, jecting the western God in derision, vulgar- serve basic benefits of Mormon life. Chal- Mormon and human rights activist, ity, and humor. This God has done nothing lenger learns that one has to put one’s body T for them. and blood on the line. faces a disciplinary council at which she presents her defense to excommunication Mr Good Looking is quickly overwhelmed. After a hellish dream which inspires him to before three male judges. As would be the This is not how he envisioned missionary return to mission, Good Looking meets a case in Roman Catholic tradition, the work. He begins to doubt his faith, every- community of converts created by the co- outcome is predictable. In solidarity with thing he was taught, and soon decides to worker whom he could not tolerate. Good Kate, we explore a contemporary meaning leave Africa, despite the strict rule prohibit- Lookng, too, learns to put his body and of body and blood in Christian faith ing separation of mission partners. Mean- blood on the line. He goes to the warlord evident in the musical, “The Book of while, Mr Challenger grieves. Hoping for camp to preach the Book of Mormon. He suf- Mormon.” friendship, he has again experienced rejec- fers but survives their brutality which in- tion. cluded the insertion of the Book of Mormon An even greater crisis looms. The [Mor- into his anal cavity. Later, when the war- As would be the case in mon] powers that be are coming to assess lords arrive at the village in order to kill Roman Catholic tradition, the how the mission is going; and not it is most everyone unless they have mutilated the definitely not going well. genitals of their women, Challenger faces outcome is predictable. machine guns with words, and responds by That is, until one young female villager de- terrorizing the terrorists—he threatens that cides to try out the Mormon faith. She con- they will turn into frogs if they kill the vil- vinces the villagers to listen to Challenger’s lagers. What he said was a lie but it was in preaching. And, for the first time, Chal- The musical tells the story of two, young the context of local folklore, it had meaning lenger listens to what he is saying. He real- (need I say male) missionaries: one tall, to the terrorists and they depart in fear. izes, for example, that he is promoting a blond, handsome, talented, overly confi- book that says dark skinned people are of dent (we’ll call him Mr Good Looking), the the devil. He begins to reinterpret The Book hope of his sending ward; the other, short, The villagers are thus empowered. of Mormon in light of the villagers’ experi- overweight, wears glasses, average looks, ence. He offers a political strategy to the They begin to be baptized, first lacking obvious talents, annoying and a re- village: if they come together and act as puted liar, even by his parents (we’ll call the young woman, and eventually one to resist warlord abuses, they might be this one Mr Challenger). These two are able to free themselves of terror and vio- the entire village, even the paired to mission in Africa, not the location lence. The analogies Challenger uses to for which “Mr Good Looking” prayed. On warlord. The villagers still have reinterpret The Book of Mormon are drawn arrival at their assigned village, they find from his own personal theologically un- AIDS, ants in their private parts, themselves tired, listless, hopeless villagers. trained, sheltered North American life, Nearby, they meet other young Mormon issues with cultural mandates along with cultural analogies such as Star missionaries who have been there for some Wars and The Hobbit. The analogies he and basic survival issues but they months without a single convert. comes up with are in fact ridiculous. But also have community, hope, and Then the work begins for Mr Good Look- they enable the villagers to find meaning ing and Mr Challenger. They try to peddle from The Book which actually The Book itself energy to live into the future. the Book of Mormon, the promise of “Salt could not provide. Lake City”; eternal life and white, middle class values rooted in Biblical prohibitions (such as racism, homophobia, and implicit The villagers are thus empowered. They male dominance). The Book, of course, is in When we live the words to their begin to be baptized, first the young English. When they preach, the villagers ultimate consequences, in body woman, and eventually the entire village, drift away in quiet despair. Missionaries even the warlord. The villagers still have come to their villag e at least once a year, and blood, then the words have AIDS, ants in their private parts, issues with but nothing changes. The villagers suffer meaning and we have integrity. cultural mandates and basic survival issues from AIDS, the irrational brutality and vio- but they also have community, hope, and lence of self-appointed warlords, and cul- energy to live into the future. tural mandates such as genital mutilation A poignant moment is the young woman’s of women. The people still experience Challenger is empowered. What had been realization that she, herself, will not be daily threats to life and health in their envi- characterized by his literalist minded Mor- taken to the New Jerusalem of Salt Lake ronment: ants that invade their bodies, eat- mon community as lying was, in fact, a ca- City as she had understood. Devastated, ing them alive from inside out; predators, pacity to experience a different level of this realization undercuts her faith in like lions, snakes, and mosquitos; lack of meaning, one at which many of the exist- everything until one villager explains that meaningful work, clean water and inade- ing rules required revision. He was able to quate food. At one point, the two men ex- continued on page 14

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Theological Perspectives Reflections on Pope Francis’ First Year This was originally presented on March 23, 2014 at Prairie Unitarian Universalist Society, Madison, Wisc.

am grateful, and a bit daunted, to have I think it is natural to want a hero – but as been invited to share my thoughts on charming as Pope Francis is, he is not that the first year of Pope Francis’s papacy. hero. Paul Baumann, the editor of the I Catholic magazine Commonweal, writes for Francis’ image in the secular media has been that of a pope of the people, a radical Slate, that the obsession with Francis “en- reformer, and a little bit of a cuddly, courages the illusion that what ails the household “pet” in a white cassock who church can be cured by one man, espe- kisses babies. When I was asked me to cially by a new man. In truth no pope pos- share my reflections I agreed to do so with sesses that kind of power, thank God.” The the warning that this is decidedly not my rock star status of Francis and declarations take on Francis. As someone who has been of “radical” statements that should be sim- actively involved in church reform ply a baseline for Christianity removes the movements for most of my adult life, I responsibility of the people in the pews to would describe myself as contrarian to the critically engage the institution to which common opinion on our current pope. they claim loyalty. It also minimizes the struggles of many reformers who work For those who are not familiar with my tirelessly against the continued marginal- background, I have spent the majority of ization of women and the LGBTQ my life engaged with the Catholic Church community. in one way or another. I was baptized as an infant at St. Joan of Arc Church (which For instance, there was much ado about Johanna Hatch seems a bit prophetic). I received all my his statement, “If someone is gay and seeks sacraments in the Catholic Church as I the Lord, who am I to judge?” But in the reproductive decisions, and would finally grew up and served alternately as an altar same interview, he also said, “On the ordi- treat LGBTQ folks with true dignity. Please server and cantor. When it came time for nation of women, the church has spoken also keep in mind that I was already presi- college, I chose the College of Saint Bene- and said no. John Paul II, in a definitive for- dent of the oldest and largest organization dict in Minnesota, a Catholic women’s col- mulation said that door is closed.” And we dedicated to women’s equality in the lege sponsored by the Sisters of the Order should also keep in mind that even such a Catholic Church. And now we are a year of Saint Benedict, where I received a solid out. I’m still waiting. in education in theology, feminism, and the At the same time, it cannot be denied that importance of conscience. Following gradu- The real struggle in speaking Francis has brought a radically different ation, I spent a year volunteering with the adequately about Pope Francis, posture to the papacy than either of the Sisters of Saint Joseph of Carondelet, a pro- previous popes of my lifetime. His first acts gressive order of women religious in the his role in the church and the as pope were simple, yet authentic, reject- Twin Cities. They gave me my formal intro- world, is that while I would ing much of the wealth and majesty his duction to the church reform movement, predecessors embraced in favor of a simpler bringing me to my first Call to Action con- describe myself as critical to the way. In his first Holy Week as pope, I ference in Milwaukee and sending me to point of cynicism, perhaps the watched in wonder as he washed the feet my first WOC event. I eventually spent a of a girl – a Muslim girl, who was also a year studying at Washington Theological eagerness to embrace him prisoner – while churches around the Union in Washington, DC, focusing on spir- illustrates the hunger and hurt world (including right here in Madison, ituality studies before moving to Madison. Wisconsin) continue to deny women the felt by many liberal, former, or From my perspective, there are two com- ability to participate in this traditional Holy peting narratives about Pope Francis: that otherwise exiled Catholics. Thursday remembrance. His rejection of of the rock star, new world pope shaking much of the finery embraced by his prede- things up in the Vatican – and that of a new cessors shows what I believe to be an au- friendly face who protects church ortho- thentic and refreshing attempt to more bold statement as “who am I to judge?” closely embrace the roots of Christianity. doxy on issues of gender, sexual identity, does absolutely nothing to change the and reproduction. His style has been lauded as “pastoral over teachings of the Catholic Church, which is political,” with which for the most part I The world’s obsession with Pope Francis that any sexual identity beyond heterosex- agree. But even while I embrace the words calls to mind two things for me – one, a se- ual is “intrinsically disordered.” I will never of a pope who places a high priority of rious misunderstanding of the role of the forget how it felt to be told – by a self-pro- what Catholics call the Corporal Works of pope in the Catholic Church, and two, a claimed atheist and feminist – that I needed Mercy – feed the hungry, shelter the home- longing for healing, reconciliation, and the to be patient, these things take time, and less, visit the imprisoned – over the ortho- example of someone who authentically em- eventually (she was sure of it!) that a good doxy of the faithful on the old “pelvic zone” braces the radical message of Jesus of Jesuit pope would allow women to be or- issues, he has heartily and forcefully closed Nazareth. dained, allow families to make their own discussion on those very issues. Even

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Theological Perspectives

Reflections on Pope Francis’ First Year...continued from page 8 though 98% of Catholics in the U.S. have Students at Eastside Catholic High School used a method of birth control not ap- If we believe that the church’s in Seattle walked out in protest after their proved by the church and the church’s im- problems can be solved by one beloved vice principal, Mr. Z, was fired for movable stance against even the use of marrying his male partner. Fr. Roy Bour- condoms to prevent the spread of HIV has charismatic man, we are not geois, a Maryknoll priest for forty years and contributed to unknown amounts of suffer- founder of the movement to close the ing, Francis has gone so far as to call the di- acknowledging the depth of the School of the Americas in Fort Benning, GA, visive decision to ban all methods of problems. One figurehead is not was stripped of his priestly ministry and ex- artificial contraception by Pope Paul VI as communicated for refusing to repent of the “courageous.” enough to reform an institution belief that God equally calls women and The real struggle in speaking adequately that leads one billion people. At men to serve as priests. Around the coun- about Pope Francis, his role in the church the same time, expecting him to try, Catholic lay people have been at the and the world, is that while I would de- forefront of movements for marriage equal- scribe myself as critical to the point of cyni- do so, and that if we get a “good ity, even while their bishops seek to silence cism, perhaps the eagerness to embrace pope” the work will be done, also them. While none of them have been on him illustrates the hunger and hurt felt by the cover of Rolling Stone magazine, they many liberal, former, or otherwise exiled denies the real power of Catholics are rock stars to me. Call them prophetic or Catholics. But when I’m honest with my- around the world. delusional, they do not accept that division self, it’s not hard to understand why. This is or oppression are the will of the Divine. where I will take a more personally reflec- They don’t need permission from any pope tive turn. to do what they know to be right. This, in As I have become an increasingly vocal my opinion, is the only real way that With great frustration, I have watched self- critic of the Catholic Church, I have been change will take place in the Catholic identified feminists and progressives gush exhorted many times to repent and “come church, and I would encourage those out- over Pope Francis’ words and actions. In a home.” But what those who ask this of me side of it, especially those of who have left particularly exasperating turn, an internet don’t seem to realize is that in order to the church and chosen a different path, to hoax last December reported that Pope “come home,” I must reject my most basic stand with these allies. If there is a key to Francis had declared hell to be a heresy, all beliefs about my dignity and worth as a changing this institution, it will not come religions to be true, and full equality for person. In fact, until I reject the notion that from the top down, but from the people in women in the church. That story has circu- women and LGBTQ people are worthy of the pews whose consciences have been lated through my Facebook feed over and full equality, “home” does not want me formed by the radical notion that Jesus of over again from self-proclaimed atheists, back. And if I’m being honest, that still Nazareth was serious when he followed his former Catholics, and usually credulous so- hurts. Pope Francis probably can’t fix that – Jewish faith and continued the teaching to cial justice advocates. No one seemed to no one person can instantly heal the bro- notice that it only appeared on one blog kenness of this institution. Nor do I expect and wasn’t covered by any major news him to. But to gloss over the fact that Pope My hope, however slim, is that in source. And I end up feeling terrible when I Francis continues to stand strong against Pope Francis’s next year, he will have to break the news to them that, no, women’s ordination, reproductive justice, the church actually hasn’t radically and the full equality of LGBTQ people in truly, as the Benedictines say, changed and that, in fact, Pope Francis the Catholic, church and society at large, “listen with the ear of his heart” stands strong against these reforms. This and promotes these as sacred teachings, he eagerness to embrace a pope whose intro- minimizes the serious harm that continues to the people of his flock. duction to the world was a shy wave and unabated. the name of saint who was noted for his rejection of worldly glory so vividly demon- If we believe that the church’s problems can be solved by one charismatic man, we strates a deep ache I think many of us carry. love our neighbor. My hope, however slim, are not acknowledging the depth of the is that in Pope Francis’s next year, he will Is it perhaps because so many of us want problems. One figurehead is not enough to truly, as the Benedictines say, “listen with the Roman Catholic Church to actually wel- reform an institution that leads one billion the ear of his heart” to the people of his come us back into the fold? For me, dissoci- people. At the same time, expecting him to flock. If that occurs, we might in fact see ating with the church is similar to leaving a do so, and that if we get a “good pope” the radical change. And even if it doesn’t hap- family of origin or being a refugee in a new work will be done, also denies the real pen, I hope even more that as people of land. Yes, it can be and is at times an abu- power of Catholics around the world. Even good will, we will continue to extend a sive, dysfunctional structure, and it has as those outside the Catholic Church, if you hand of friendship and solidarity to all purposefully excluded women and LGBT place these high expectations on Pope Fran- those anonymous saints who give of them- people and called those exclusions the “will cis, you deny the conscience and humanity selves every day to create a more just of God.” But it is the language I am fluent of each person who must choose to remain church and world. in, a culture that still influences who I am complacent or challenge the status quo. and it frames many of my views of the Every day, there are Catholics actively re- Johanna Hatch is a former co-president of WOC. world. jecting the belief that women are less than She currently lives in Madison, Wisc. with her men or that to be gay is to be “disordered.” family.

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Diversity and Inclusion What Do We Do With a Closed Door? By Tracy Ga rrison-Feinburg

his past Easter I found myself dent had been invited to ask the priest a standing before the beautiful new question when he met with us, and an- altar of the church where I spent my other girl in the class and I were chosen to T go first, because we had the same ques- college years. My hand was on the slender shoulder of my amazing niece, McKenzie, tion: why couldn’t we have female altar as she joined other high school and college servers in our church? This was a time students to be confirmed at the Easter Vigil. when American bishops had left the deci- I was so proud of her, and so honored that sion up to individual parishes, and ours, a she asked me to stand with her that night small Catholic community on a military as she declared her commitment to the base in northern Alabama, hadn’t yet Catholic Church. I also found myself opened up altar service to girls. The pas- thinking about my own confirmation, more tor’s answer to our question was the mo- than thirty years before, and all the years ment I began to seriously struggle with since, as I’ve been challenged and what it meant to be a woman in the strengthened in my own faith many times. Catholic Church. He began by saying that And I thought about my daughter, now since altar service was a traditional path to nine, not a Catholic, not quite Jewish, and the priesthood, he didn’t think it appropri- just beginning to ponder her own ate for girls to serve at our church, so they spirituality in a more serious way. What wouldn’t be disappointed later. So of example do I set for each of these young course our follow up question was why women, and my nephew, who is can’t women be priests? I truly believe he considering confirmation in the Church as was trying to be kind, but his response WOC Vice President, Tracy Garrison-Feinburg (R) well? What is my role as their aunt, and and her niece McKenzie (L). her mother, as I continue my own questioning and struggle with the Church? When I told my niece and How do I help each of them in their own spiritual journeys, which I know may nephew this story, some thirty changed for good. When I got home that involve pain and hurt and confusion? years later, I wanted them to afternoon, I told my mother that I would Because I love them, I want to spare them go through with confirmation for her, and I some of the hurt and anger I’ve understand that the church would attend church as long as I was living experienced over the years as a Catholic they are committing to is not at home, but after high school I was done. I woman struggling with church doctrine had no intention in staying part of a church and hierarchy. But I also know that the perfect, and that the best thing that thought so little of me, and of men for Catholic woman I am today is because of they can do as adult Catholics that matter. that hurt and anger, and forgiveness, and yes, joy. Standing there, in that over air- is to continue to question and When I told my niece and nephew this conditioned church, trying to keep my hold the institution of the story, some thirty years later, I wanted them niece steady, I did what I usually do when to understand that the church they are thoughts like these swim through my head: Catholic Church accountable to committing to is not perfect, and that the I took a breath, said a quick prayer, and its members. best thing they can do as adult Catholics is asked God for guidance. to continue to question and hold the institution of the Catholic Church accountable As my niece’s confirmation sponsor, and as to its members. Joining the WOC board an educator by nature and training, I was jolted me with the realization that this has reignited my passion to speak up for all compelled to tell her and her brother my priest, and other priests like him, this members of the body of Christ, especially own confirmation story, which was an im- church, really didn’t see me as I thought it women. I have listened to the many wel- portant turning point in my development should. His answer to our question was coming statements of Pope Francis over the as a Catholic woman. I’ve realized over the that men are so morally weak, that the past year, and have allowed myself glim- years that my identity as a woman and as a temptation of a woman on the altar, conse- mers of hope for a more open and more ac- Catholic are intertwined, as is my racial crating bread and wine, would impede countable Roman Catholic Church. The identity, but the latter is another story. My their ability to fully participate in the mass frustrations of my thirteen-year-old self, relationship to the church has always been without sinful thoughts. I think he forgot and my twenty-something self, rise to the shaped by how I see myself as a woman, he was speaking to thirteen and fourteen surface whenever I hear Francis or other and perhaps more significantly, how the year-old teenagers. To their credit, the boys church officials remind us of the “closed church has seen and not seen me as a full in our class, who were often more goofy door” when it comes to women’s ordina- member of the Catholic community. In the and inappropriate than we could stand, tion. And yet when I stood with my niece weeks before my confirmation, our class were as equally taken aback and offended at her confirmation, when my daughter met with the pastor of our church. He was as the girls were. I don’t remember any of asks me about what I believe and why I go a funny, kind man, and I remember his us actually challenging the priest further, to church, and when I am in communion homilies often held my interest. Each stu- but my relationship to the church was continued on page 12

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Book Review Review of Band of Sisters, film directed by Mary Fishman (2012) Review by Melissa Pucci Push aside any pre-conceived cinematic im- to explore and ex- pressions of nuns when taking in a show- pose the goings-on ing of Band of Sisters. The women religious at Broadview Immi- chronicled in this 2012 film by director grant Detention Mary Fishman are definitely not Fraulein Center and the Maria, Sister Mary Clarence or even Sally nearby McHenry Fields’ precocious Sister Bertrille. The County Jail. What women in this film represent eleven differ- began as prayer vig- ent orders. They enjoy a pint and a cuppa; ils on the margins of they have been arrested; taken on the Vati- the detention center can; the School of the Americas; and even property, shown to the U.S. Congress, but throughout the day be strictly enforce- they are engaged in long-time ministries ment by the local po- and through all this, they show the lice, quickly escalates strengths of their communities. to lobbying immi- The women profiled come across gen- grant rights before uinely: loyal, courageous, risk takers called the Illinois State House and what unfolds is film provides an explanation of the found- to service and action in the truest examples a series of small victories. While the story- ing of both the LCWR and Network shared of servant leadership. The women speak line does not overshadow the historical by some of their early leaders. The conver- candidly, stories told in their own words, content, or the candid interviews with vari- sations about the investigations shed light and real time of examples of their ministries ous women, including notable women reli- on the long-time missions of the sisters in their communities. gious such as Srs Theresa Kane, Margaret being not only in the trenches, but working Brennan, and Lillian Murphy, CEO of side by side with the voiceless and the The eighty-eight-minute film is presented Mercy Housing, it helps to provide a living powerless, truly the least of God’s people in documentary style with a comfortable example of the good works juxtaposed with who have routinely been overlooked, even narrative, conversations with the sisters; the struggles these sisters are facing in their by the hierarchy of the church. historical images juxtaposed with modern works for the people. The viewer just can- While many see the election of Pope Francis day depictions of their ministries. All this not help but root for them. welcomes the viewer into their world—lit- as a glimmer of hope, a pontiff who some erally and figuratively opening the convent The overarching theme seems to be that of see as one who will emphasize the plight of doors to us. overcoming challenges: from cloister to the poor and marginalized while down- habit to traditional gender roles long preor- playing the power and patriarchy of the Filmed over eight years, the documentary dained by the church, grappling with the church, this film vividly chronicles that is successful in providing an overview of changes of the Second Vatican Council, and there is still much to be done in terms of the major impacts of the Second Vatican in some instances mass exoduses or reli- recognizing and respecting women’s roles Council, chronicling the papacies of John gious women. The result is a small but in the church. The current pontiff has no XXIII through Benedict XVI, while provid- strong band of women religious shown to record thus far of correcting these injus- ing snapshots into the more recent chal- be the stalwart leaders and people of faith tices. lenges faced by women religious today, they have always been. Thus, the revolu- On the whole this film is quite accessible. most notably the recent LCWR investiga- tionary ministries the modern day sisters tions. The take-away is real for individuals work- are shown engaging in since the Second ing alongside today’s women religious to The womens’ own stories speak of humble Vatican Council, honestly are extensions of those who had a strict, but fair nun in the beginnings: first nights in the convent and the primary missions of most apostolic or- third grade to those whose lives and min- letters from home, to traditional ministries ders: answering the needs of God’s people, istries were shaped by a woman religious as in teaching, nursing, and congregational often those in their own neighborhoods. It young adults. Without a doubt this film leadership evolving into thoroughly mod- begs the question: how does the role of highlights the gift women religious are to ern ministries—environmentalists, organic these sisters working as organic farmers dif- the church and its social justice and human farmers, affordable housing directors, the- fer from the call of the Corporal Works of service ministries, as well as to the people ologians, lobbyists, and social justice advo- Mercy to feed the hungry? of God. The film also adequately sets the cates. The obstacles women religious continue to historical record straight and might well be Framing the film is the work of two encounter are real. During the film’s pro- used for educational as well as ecclesial Chicago area Sisters of Mercy, Pat Murphy duction and initial screenings the Vatican purposes when the People of God get a (83-years old) and Joann Persch (78-years investigation into the LCWR was just be- chance to weigh in on the Vatican’s rulings old). These women had served on a parish ginning and the report had not been pub- toward the LCWR. social justice committee with the filmmaker. lished in its entirety. But fortunately for us Melissa Pucci holds an M.A.R in Religious Sisters Pat and Joann spearhead a venture (not to mention the archival record), the Studies from Yale Divinity School.

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Book Review Jimmy Carter, A Call To Action: Women, Religion, Violence and Power, New York: Simon and Schuster, 2014. 213 pp. ISBN 978–1–4767–7395–7. $28. Reviewed by Jeannette Mulherin

Pope Francis would do well to put Jimmy Carter’s new book, A Call To Action: Women, Religion, Violence and Power, on the top of his reading list. Although Francis has expressed a deep concern for worldwide economic inequality, he has yet to demonstrate an appreciation for the fundamental role of female oppression in the cause and continuation of such disparity. Were he to peruse the pages of A Call To Action, the Pope would encounter overwhelming evidence of this crucial link. In his latest book, Carter argues that “the deprivation and abuse of women and girls, largely caused by a false interpretation of carefully selected religious texts” (emphasis mine) has a “devastating effect on economic prosperity caused by the loss of contributions of at least half the human beings on earth.” It’s time to make this linkage common knowledge. A Call To Action does that in spades. Drawing on the Carter Center’s impressive record of hu- manitarian work as well as his personal involvement in human rights issues, the former U.S. president recounts the horrors routinely meted out to women. Roy Bourgeois gifted a copy of A Call to Action to WOC staff In chapters that examine crimes ranging from sexual as- sault, spousal abuse, slavery and prostitution, to honor killings, genital cutting, and genocide, Carter argues that the immense suffering disproportionately inflicted on women is our “most serious and unaddressed world-wide pointed. However, while Carter holds all major faiths accountable for problem.” The litany of tragedies and numbing statistics perpetuating the problem, he also insists that people of faith have the might cause a reader to wonder if life as a woman is really power to create lasting change. worth the trouble after all. Carter suggests that while many men disagree with women’s treat- In a chapter titled, “Learning from Human Rights Heroes,” ment, they “remain quiet in order to enjoy the benefits of their status.” Carter highlights the efforts of WOC, the Leadership Coun- Hopefully, this essential point is not lost on readers who are more com- cil of Women Religious (LCWR), and Fr Roy Bourgeois to fortable decrying the brutality of others than accepting personal re- establish gender justice in the Catholic Church. His exami- sponsibility to make positive change. nation of the Vatican backlash against these efforts is a stark reminder of the hierarchy’s continuing commitment to “a Carter’s book makes clear that the stakes are high. If Pope Francis is false interpretation of carefully selected religious texts,” to ensure truly committed to addressing the root causes of economic inequality, the status quo. he’ll heed our former president’s Call To Action and address the culpa- bility of his own church in this continuing scourge. If readers are expecting Christianity to come out looking better than other major world religions, they will be disap- Jeannette Mulherin serves at the President of WOC’s Board of Directors.

What Do We Do With a Closed Door?...continued from page 10

with others in the Catholic reform move- one can open the door with the right muzzled. When Jesus ignored her, and ment, I am far less discouraged than the key. And in the tradition of Catholi- even insulted her as she asked for help for younger me was. I don’t know if it’s matu- cism, who holds the keys? [National her daughter, she stood her ground and an- rity or stubbornness, but I see options for Catholic Reporter, Sept 16, 2013; swered back. And Jesus’ response was to opening that door, whether or not the Vati- http://ncronline.org/blogs/ncr- reward her for her faith. That’s the mes- can intends for me to find the key. Robert today/pope-francis-and-womens-ordi- sage I intend to keep giving to my niece McClory captured it in this way: nation] and my daughter and my nephew—keep Note, finally, that all this talk is about This reminds me of the Canaanite woman knocking, keep looking for the right key. a door, a closed door — not a brick from the gospel of Matthew (15: 21-28) as Tracy Garrison-Feinburg serves as vice-presi- wall, not a barbed wire fence, not a well, who I often recall when the voice of dent of WOC. She currently lives in Brooklyn, concrete barrier. It’s just a door. Any- women in the Church is muted or even NY with her husband and daughter.

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Upcoming Events Upcoming Events The Catholic Tipping Point Fall Tour Fr. Tony Flannery is a native of Galway, and member of the Redemptorist Congre- gation for more than 50 years. He is the founding member of the Association of Catholic Priests (ACP) in Ireland. Fr. Tony has been ordered to remain silent and forbidden to minister as a priest because of his refusal to sign a document that violates his conscience: namely that women cannot be priests and that he accepts all Church stances on contraception, homosexuality, and refusal of the sacraments to people in second relationships. After a year during which he attempted to come to some accommodation with the Vatican without success, he has decided to take a public stance on the need for reform in the Church. Fr. Tony will tour the U.S. this fall, from October 22 – November 18, 2014, visiting 18 cities and speaking with Catholic laity and leadership on topics of women in the Church, the future of ministry, the problem with infallibility, and the sexual teachings of the Catholic Church. Rather than remain silent, Fr. Tony and all people of conscience are ready to dialogue. Washington, DC • Baltimore • Philadelphia • New York City • Boston Providence • Syracuse • Cleveland • Detroit • Minneapolis • Memphis Sarasota • San Antonio • St. Louis • Phoenix • Sacramento Portland, OR • Seattle

www.catholictippingpoint.org

Ministry of Prophetic Obedience...continued from page 6

liturgy. We talked briefly and then, with The Midwest Region’s first bishop, Maria month. My spiritual direction practice will friends, I celebrated my first Roman Regina Nicolosi, blessed the region with be maintained and new ventures will de- Catholic Womanpriest liturgy. I could not five years of service and notified us in 2013 velop as this new ministry unfolds. stop crying. This is what I had been wait- that it was time for her to retire. The One of my favorite theologians, Ilia Delio, ing for all my life. Women priests were process of selecting a new bishop began. writes: “To be divinized means to have the here in the U.S., and I was invited to join Others shared their insights with me and grace of Christ within you… God needs them. encouraged me to allow my name to be human skin in the universe, vessels of pas- After completing the admission process, I placed on the ballot. My own spiritual sionate love.… We can be and are called to was accepted as a member of the RCWP movement affirmed that allowing my name be co-lovers and co-creators of the uni- Midwest Region. I would be a candidate to be considered was just part of the dis- verse.” My call is to be a co-creator and co- for two years as I continued working in a cernment process. And so it began. After lover as I live out the fullness of my parish and completed the requirements for several months of regional planning, the priesthood. This grace of priesthood is a diaconate ordination. Subsequently I re- election took place, and I was elected living stream within me that touches every- tired from active parish ministry and was bishop for our region. thing that I am and do. ordained a deacon in catacomb. Less than I am writing this article several weeks be- Nancy Meyer is a bishop for Roman Catholic a year later I was ordained a Roman fore my ordination as a bishop. How will Women Priests for the mid-west Region. She Catholic womanpriest. The grace that had my life change? It will be an unfolding currently lives in Brownsburg, Indiana. begun in me so many years earlier was fi- process. The RCWP constitution stipulates nally realized. For many reasons I needed that bishops “are to provide pastoral and to remain as a catacomb priest, yet after prayerful support” for the members in the two- and-a-half years I was able to openly region. The small house church of Women celebrate my priesthood with the commu- at the Well will continue to meet once a nity.

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Vatican Official Receives Letters Calling for Discussion of Women’s Ordination...continued from page 4

On this anniversary, WOW women are inferior. It is a flawed and dan- “I would like to encourage you to meet gerous theology to say that to be like Jesus with women who experience a call to knocked on the door of the you have to have male genitalia.” Pat priesthood and wth male priests and other Brown Vatican, and for the first time the religious who have supported us in the dis- “Please help me to show my daughters that cernment process.” Katharine Salmon door cracked open. Written in the church is fair and an institution to be “I believe that the church cannot decide in various languages, these proud of, not ashamed of [due to its dis- advance who is or is not called to the priest- criminatory practice toward women].” hood, based on biological features. I believe testimonies offered a clear voice to Aleta Galusha that Gaudium et Spes par. 29 about equality the stories we know and carry in “Should we not be focusing on our loving for all applies as much inside the church as and just relationships with one another out in the rest of the world. We are denying our own hearts. This door rather than on our bodily or physical char- the will of God by denying women access opening to a WOW request was a acteristics?” Sr. Beth Rindler to ordination.” Catherine Cavanagh first of what we hope is a full “My daughter cannot bring herself to bring “I believe God has created me with equality her daughter for baptism in a church that in dignity, rights and spirit in the image of entry into our own home and denies full equality to all.” Christine Fal- God; it is also because God calls every per- possibly the welcoming mat to cone son individually and there is no control of any human person on this individual voca- “I left the Catholic faith because my (then) substantive and honest discussion tion or call.” Rosaline Costa 8-year old son asked a question I could not on women’s ordination. answer. My son tugged on my sleeve during his first reconciliation Mass. I leaned down and he whispered in my ear, “Mommy, why aren’t there any lady to every voice through which the Spirit priests?” I stared at the altar, with a row of speaks. Biblical scholars have taught that males priests waiting to hear the children’s the disciples who were present at the Last first confession, and I had no idea how to Supper included women. God’s call is not begin to answer.” Teri Goggin-Roberts dependent on gender, any more than God is defined by gender. It is patriarchy that continues this inappropriate definition of God as “He” and it is the same patriarchy that keeps women from their call to ordained priesthood.” Sr. Imelda Maurer Our Bodies, Our Blood...continued from page 7 “Cutting off discussion is a reprehensible Salt Lake City is just a metaphor. They can gain transformational power. When we act. It closes down the inspiration of the have Salt Lake City right there at home. live the words to their ultimate conse- Holy Spirit. It says that there is nothing There are many ways to tell the story of this quences, in body and blood, then the new to be discovered in the understanding powerful, challenging musical. On the words have meaning and we have in- of creation and God’s presence and action feast of Corpus Christi, we focus on body tegrity. Jesus spent his body and blood for in it.” Mary Jane Pelletier and blood. It’s not until our two missionar- his love for God. He chose death in in- “Jesus of Nazareth treated women equally. ies put their bodies and blood at risk for the tegrity rather than recant his radical under- Church leaders should do the same.” Bruce people, that the people are transformed. standings of equality, justice, and care for Krawisz The missionaries are also transformed. all people. His body and blood, as well as They understand The Book of Mormon differ- his integrity, had untold implications for “Take away the pain that women feel every the life of the world. time they attend Mass and feel the exclu- ently, see themselves differently, under- sion.” Mary Lou Hamilton stand the meaning of the sacred in human We, too, are called to use our bodies and life differently. And when the three North our blood in love and with integrity. In “[Pope] Francis, please heal the wound of American white guys in suits show up to those moments in which we achieve this exclusion felt by women worldwide due to assess the success of their mission, con- challenge, we are transformed and others being barred from priesthood. We will not demning it as not Mormon, Good Looking are set free. It all comes down to body and experience ourselves as the entire Body of and Nerd stand up to them too, insisting blood. It all comes down to integrity. Have Christ until this injustice is corrected and that the faith of the villagers is authenti- courage, Kate! We stand with you. Thank women’s gifts are made central to our com- cally Mormon. Faith survives the intransi- you for putting your body and blood on munity. May God bless you as move for- gency of institutionalized religion. the line for equal rights for women. ward to bring together the People of God.” Joanne Bray This musical easily could have been shaped Jane Via, RCWP serves on the WOC board and around Roman Catholic experience. currently lives in Jamal, Calif. She is the c- “While the church excludes half the world’s Therein lies the message for us. It’s only founder and co-paster of the Mary Magdalene population from the sacrament of ordina- when the words in the sacred book become Apostle Catholic Community in San Diego, tion it endorses the misogynist view that embodied in real people that the words Calif.

14 New Women, New Church • Spring/Summer 2014 NWNC NL Summer 2014 444419_Layout 1 8/7/2014 5:20 PM Page 15

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Go Green In our continuing efforts to keep things digital and dematerialized whenever possible, WOC now offers our members the option to download New Women, New Church directly with WOC! from our website. If you are an active member, you can get your username and password to log into our “For Members Only” section on our new website by emailing ehanna@ womensordination.org and note in the subject: “Go Green.” You can also receive membership notices and donation acknowledgements electronically. If you’re not a member, see page 15 for a membership form.

Spring/Summer 2014 • www.womensordination.org 15 NWNC NL Summer 2014 444419_Layout 1 8/7/2014 5:20 PM Page 16

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