IN THIS ISSUE

Director’s Report...... 2 Twenty-fifth Anniversary Celebration...... 3 Synod on the Family...... 6 Celebrating Mary of Magdala...... 10 Book Reviews...... 12 Ordain Women as Deacons... 15 Focus XVIII NO.2 WINTER 2016 / VOL. FutureChurch at 25 Years: A Map for Going Forward

But there were Catholics who had shovels.

Richard Schoenherr stood undeterred. He found alternative sources of funding to continue his work and Save the Date

finally published it in 1993 in Full Pews, Empty Altars. OUR : WHAT WILL I TELL MY From 1995: Frank Murphy, Chris Schenk, and Fr. Louis Others, determined not only to uncover this valuable data, but to DAUGHTER AND SHOULD Twenty-five years ago, on October 16, flesh out its implications for the SHE STAY? 1990, more than thirty Catholics from Church’s sacramental life and ministry sixteen parishes across the diocese of committed themselves to educating April 15, 2016 Cleveland gathered in the basement of others about these critical trends. St. Malachi parish. Their concern: the Rutgers Church in New York City Catholics in the Cleveland diocese evaporating numbers of priests and the were at the forefront of these efforts. Lecture by implications for the sacramental life of From the Church of the Resurrection, Natalia Imperatori-Lee, the Church. the Community of St. Malachi, St. Director of Catholic Studies In the 1980s, the U.S. had Mark parish and more, Catholics went Program at to work. Fr. Louis Trivison, Sr. Chris commissioned a study by Dr. Richard Manhattan College Schoenherr at the University of Schenk, Mary Englert, Kay Vine, Gen Wisconsin to map the future in terms McCloskey, Joanne Callahan, Tom and FutureChurch of active priests. The bishops wanted Ribar, Maureen Dowd, Joe Grace and Board member to understand the full impact of many more formed committees and began to educate themselves and fewer priests entering the seminaries This is part of a series of events and ongoing attrition rates due to other Catholics about the impending retirements, deaths and departures for priest shortage while recommending celebrating FutureChurch’s 25th various reasons – including the desire solutions that would help ease that Anniversary! shortage and advance Vatican II to marry. But when the bishops saw Go to www.futurechurch.org the emerging picture, they tried to concepts of Church. bury the study by defunding it. continued on page 3 to learn more!

WINTER 2016 | ONE From the Director’s Desk Focus The U.S. Bishops on FutureChurch in a Francis World EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Deborah Rose-Milavec Reading the latest iteration of the EDITORIAL CONSULTANT: Sr. Diana Culbertson, OP U.S. Bishops’ “Forming Consciences BOARD OF TRUSTEES for Faithful CHAIR: Marie Graf Citizenship” is akin to swallowing a VICE-CHAIR: Mary Lou Hartman bitter pill. It just hurts — all the way TREASURER: Jim Connell down. SECRETARY: Barbara Guerin FINANCE CHAIR: Jim Connell The document, first developed PROGRAM CHAIR: Sr. Diana Culbertson, OP in 2007 and re-issued on PERSONNEL CHAIR: E. Thomas Dowd November 17, 2015, at the annual MEDIA CHAIR: Mary Lou Hartman Deborah Rose-Milavec stands in press room STRATEGIC ISSUES CHAIR: Rita L. Houlihan USCCB meeting, overwhelms the at the Synod on the Family in October 2015. reader with language that breathes AT LARGE “fire and brimstone” rather than trusted, compelling guidance. Lisa Barczyk • Fr. Gerry Bechard Jocelyn Collen • Sr. Diana Culbertson, OP During his September visit to the United States, told E. Thomas Dowd • Mary Louise Hartman • Rita Houlihan U.S. bishops to reject “harsh and divisive language” and to reach out John Hushon • Eugene Kramer • Todd Ray to the world, especially those in need. The bishops, he said, should EX OFFICIO embrace an approach “which attracts men and women through the Deborah Rose-Milavec attractive light and warmth of love” EMERITA (Religious News Service, 23 Sept 15). Sr. Christine Schenk, CSJ In that way, a few courageous bishops stand out. Even though the OPTIONAL CELIBACY NATIONAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE document passed by an overwhelming majority (210-21), for the first Fr. Gerry Bechard, Detroit, MI • Ron Dubois, time, several bishops voiced strong opposition from the floor. Braintree, MA • Rosanne Santos, Hanover, NH Bishops Robert McElroy, Gerald Kicanus and John Stowe urged Fr. Jim Sheil, Avon, OH • Phil Marcin, Akron, OH Linda Marcin, Akron, OH that the document be thrown out. They called for a new document that would better incorporate the priorities of Pope WOMEN IN CHURCH LEADERSHIP NATIONAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE Francis, especially those that focus on ending global poverty and Marianne Bernard, Clarkston, MI • Tom Blanks, the environment. Hercules, CA • Jocelyn Collen, Boston, MA Bishop McElroy faulted the document for keeping “the structure of Patricia Gomez,Tewksbury, MA Rita L. Houlihan, New York, NY • Astrid Lobo Gajiwala, the worldview of 2007,” and called it, “gravely hobbled.” Mumbai, India • Elizabeth McGahan, In an interview with America magazine, Bishop McElroy also said that St. John’s New Brunswick, Canada • Virginia Saldanha, applying the language “intrinsically evil” to the redefinition Mumbai, India • Robin Senior, Syossett, NY of marriage was technically incorrect, but more importantly, “pasto- Focus on FutureChurch is a semiannual publication rally alienating…injurious to gay men and women…and injurious of FutureChurch, a national organization of parish centered Catholics working for full participation of all to the Millennial generation” (http://americamagazine.org/issue/ Catholics in the life of the Church. The newsletter updated-faithful-citizenship-challenged-usccb-meeting). features information and commentary related to the Because of the pastoral leadership of Pope Francis, the pain of hav- mission of FutureChurch and reports on Church reform issues not prominently covered elsewhere. ing this document thrust upon us again is even more acute. Our No advertisements are accepted, though letters to the hearts have been softened with hope over the past two years. Frag- editor are always welcome. FutureChurch is a 501(c)3 ile still, we carry that hope with us when the bishops meet. We pray not-for-profit organization. Parts of this publication they have been listening. We look for signs that they have been may be reprinted after obtaining written converted -- softened by the spirit of compassion swirling anew in permission from FutureChurch. the Church. We long for leadership that does not rely on harsh and ©FutureChurch 2015 divisive language, but attracts men and women through love. GRAPHIC DESIGN: Maryanne Hiti Design LLC We were made for just that kind of Church, just that kind of love. So Printed on Recycled Paper are our brother bishops. FutureChurch Read FutureChurch’s statement on “Forming Consciences for Faith- 17307 Madison Avenue ful Citizenship” at https://futurechurch.org/press-releases/future- Lakewood OH 44107 church-calls-usccb-document-%E2%80%9Cforming-consciences- 216-228-0869 for-faithful-citizenship%E2%80%9D email: [email protected] Visit our website www.futurechurch.org DEB ROSE-MILAVEC

TWO | WINTER 2016 FutureChurch at 25 Years continued from page 1 Those pioneering Catholics formed the core of FutureChurch. Priestly Ministry, Women in Church Leadership, Save Working in partnership with Call To Action, FutureChurch Our Parish Community and Justice in the Church. With organized the “Future of Priestly Ministry” campaign and a strong Board of Trustees, a talented and committed visited 60 parishes in five years to awaken others to the staff and a tenacious and engaged group of volunteers shortage while offering strategies for talking with their and members, FutureChurch will continue to work locally, bishops and working for change. nationally and now, more than ever, internationally to strengthen our collective voice for change and to build Pioneering Catholics have always been at the center of a strong vibrant church for this generation and the next. this work formulating and driving much needed reforms The Spirit of God that compelled Fr. Louis Trivison, Sr. within the Church we love. FutureChurch’s work has Chris Schenk and so many other Catholics to lead the continued to expand and evolve. Driven by our early Church forward is still beckoning—calling us to listen mission and vision, dozens of programs and actions have deeply, love unreservedly, and to carry out the work of the been developed under four core initiatives: Future of Gospel with courage and joy!

The Church: Presence and Possibility FutureChurch celebrates a quarter century with Sr. Theresa Kane, Fr. Michael Crosby and Sr. Chris Schenk and more Over 170 people filled the room on November 12, 2015 to celebrate the history and the ongoing work of FutureChurch. The evening was packed with spectacular speakers. Fr. Michael Crosby gave the keynote address and Sr. Theresa Kane offered a special tribute to Sr. Chris Schenk. The evening ended with a thought-provoking panel discussion about the gifts and future of the Church with “A Founder (Sr. Chris Schenk), a Gen Xer (Natalie Kertes Weaver) and a Millennial (Russ Petrus).”

Sr. Theresa Kane offers a tribute to Sr. Chris Schenk Sr. Theresa Kane congratulated FutureChurch on its Silver Anniversary and described Sr. Chris Schenk as a “singular catalyst…whose beauty is both interior and exterior”, one who has served as “a source of inspiration to me and to others.”

Sr. Chris Schenk responded to the tribute by asking “what would you expect when we stand on the shoulders of giants?” Sr. Chris recounted the many times when friends and colleagues encouraged her, the times when Fr. Louis Trivison called when she was feeling low, or Ann Dowdell wrote encouraging notes or Sr. Theresa Kane called to check on her. Sr. Chris also announced that Fortress Press will publish her first book researching the lives of early Christian women leaders from the archaeological evidence. She also told the audience that she has been asked by Sr. Theresa Kane to write her memoirs.

Fr. Michael Crosby talks about a Trinitarian Church In the keynote address, Fr. Michael Crosby contrasted the worldview of New York Times columnist Ross Douthat who described Pope Francis as a “chief plotter” at odds with “historic faith” (nyti.ms/1jLw9Jt) with a vision Top: Christine Schenk, CSJ of Trinity—a community where there is room for all. Middle: FutureChurch volunteers and staff Bottom: Michael Crosby, OFMCap continued on page 4

WINTER 2016 | THREE The Church: Presence and Possibility continued from page 3

Fr. Crosby agreed that FutureChurch’s described her generation as one great gift was its focus on Eucharistic “disinclined to make absolute communities. According to Crosby, assertions about anything” and “the people have a right to the Eucharist first generation to be media-ized.” and to be part of a Eucharistic A generation exposed to wide ranging community. The focus should not be media messages., Dr. Weaver recognized on priesthood but on the continuation their ongoing “hermeneutic of suspicion” of religious Eucharistic communities. and ability to live with ambiguity as He applauded FutureChurch’s work a gift. “We are the Church,” said Dr. for focusing on the question of “Who Weaver. “We are already here,” and, is going to commune? Who is going beyond essentialism and ideology, we to get to the table?” need to develop an understanding of personhood that is rooted in In describing the real presence of biological science. Ministry must flow God, Fr. Crosby said, “I believe God from the science of the human person. is a community that is called Trinity. Then the questions of “who can be in In this community everyone is equal to everyone. Everyone is sharing “...I believe God is a community Top: Mary Louise Hartman moderates panel discussion everything with everyone. There is no Bottom: Rita Houlihan shows guests her newly commissioned deprivation. There is no domination. that is called Trinity. In this artwork featuring St. Mary of Magdala proclaiming the There is no discrimination.” community everyone is equal to Resurrection values…that he was even willing to die.” Fleshing out that concept, he said, everyone...” Yet, younger Catholics, ‘’don’t always “The dream of a community is experience the Church as where there is no discrimination, no having been rooted in that Jesus,” domination, and no deprivation. The and who can be out would dissolve….” he observed. Church is to be a sign of that. So Russ Petrus spoke for the Millennial when you have women discriminated generation. While admitting his The rub? “Our Church, our youth against, when you have lay people generation is abandoning religion in ministers and our pastors were asking, dominated, when you have certain record numbers, he contends that ‘What would Jesus do?’ while excluding people defined in ways that they are there is something deeper going on. our girl classmates from being altar going to be deprived of the Eucharist, servers; while telling our older sisters, how is this Trinitarian? How does “Are we the least religious genera- our mothers, our aunts that they this reflect the reign of God?” tion ever?” asked Petrus. “Yes. But couldn’t be priests; while telling does that mean we have rejected our gay classmates that they were A Founder, A Gen Xer and a Millennial Gospel values, that we have forgotten disordered. [What would Jesus do?] talk about the future of the Church the teachings of Jesus or are morally We answered ‘Not that.’’’ The evening concluded with a cross- relativistic? No. We just are not generational panel discussion on sure that the Church and so called Echoing an observation that Mahatma the future of the Church moderated by Christians haven’t [rejected Gospel Gandhi once made about Christians, board member Mary Louise Hartman. values].” Russ contended, “We take Jesus very seriously. And if the Church, the Chris Schenk, the founder, described “If there is one thing about the Mil- institutional Church wants to engage the many gifts of the Church and lennials the Church needs to know is us, they need to they need to be the Holy Spirit that have allowed us we are all about authenticity,” said worthy of the name Christian.” to remain a community of love. She Petrus. expressed concern that we have After 25 years, Catholics who carry “I think we like Jesus a lot…We like out the work of reform in the Church largely lost many of the younger the Jesus who is the social radical, who can be sure of two things. 1.) We generations in the Church. was very interested in inclusion, equal- stand on the shoulders of giants in Representing the Gen X generation, ity and social justice. We have great faith, and 2.) the Church is in good hands going forward. Natalie Kertes Weaver, Chair of respect for this Jesus who was so will- Religious Studies at Ursuline College, ing to stand up for those

FOUR | WINTER 2016 Dr. Paul Lakeland, ‘Apostle to the Laity’, Radical Grace Delights receives the 2015 Trivison Award Audiences in Cleveland, Embarks On December 2, 2015, during an evening on Social Impact Campaign ceremony at Fairfield University, Dr. Paul Lakeland received the 2015 Trivison Award. He Near capacity crowds also generously presented a lecture on “The filled the Cleveland Future of Ministry” in honor of FutureChurch’s Museum of Art’s Morley 25th anniversary. Lecture Hall for two Executive director Deborah Rose-Milavec presented the screenings of the new award, which is given in memory of Fr. Louis Trivison, a documentary Radical founding member of FutureChurch. In presenting the award, Grace on Friday October 2nd Rose-Milavec honored Dr. Lakeland as, “one of the most and Sunday October 4th. important theological voices for lay dignity and human rights in the Church.” Calling him an “apostle to the laity”, she spoke Radical Grace director, of his lifelong achievement, “bearing the Good News of the Rebecca Parrish, followed full giftedness of baptism and calling the institutional church three nuns for four years to fully empower lay Catholics in church leadership, ministry as they worked to reform and governance.” both our society and the Church, despite actions from the Vatican that threatened to silence them In his lecture, Dr. Lakeland showed how ministry has and suppress their missions. The result is a brilliant changed over time arguing that it should flow from the film which beautifully captures the faith, bravery, single principle of what “will best serve the proclamation of compassion, sense of humor, and tenacity that so the gospel?” many of us have come to love and admire about Demonstrating the dramatic need for a re-visioning of women religious. ministry, Lakeland suggested the Holy Spirit is speaking to us in: FutureChurch co-founder, Sr. Christine Schenk, one • the dramatic decline in the numbers of men offering of the film’s three subjects, delighted audiences themselves for priestly ministry.  during the post-film question and answer session that • the extraordinary changes that have come about in raised a myriad of topics: what it was like to have a understanding of women’s roles in leadership, the camera crew following her for years, the important significant numbers of women studying theology and role FutureChurch members played in helping the the number interested in ordained ministry. nuns through the Vatican oversight, the potential • the growth of the “nones,” those with no religious for women’s leadership in the Church under Pope preference, many who are former Catholics no longer Francis, and the evidence that women held leadership being spiritually nourished in the Church.  positions in the early Church. • the changed understanding of the relationships Inspired by the sisters’ story, the Radical Grace team between embodiment, sexuality and marriage that have has embarked on a national social impact campaign placed married life on a par with celibacy as a path to that is helping reframe faith and morality as a force for holiness. progressive change in the world. Collaborating with What will ministry look like in the future? feminist and faith-based social justice organizations, the Radical Grace team is leveraging the film to For Lakeland it includes: support reform within religious institutions and • the abandonment of mandatory celibacy. bridge divides to build a stronger progressive and • the ordination of women. feminist movement. The campaign has brought • the necessity of part-time priestly ministry and the Radical Grace to cities throughout the country formation of team ministries that will include preachers, including Charlotte, Chicago, Denver, and Milwaukee. administrators, liturgy experts and spiritual directors who will, in turn, preside at the Eucharist. To learn more about the film, find a screening • the end of restrictions based on gender, sexual near you, or host a screening visit www. orientation, marital status or other inessentials. radicalgracefilm.com. Dr. Lakeland’s lecture will be available for viewing on the Fairfield University website. FutureChurch will post the link as soon as it becomes available.

WINTER 2016 | FIVE Catholics find hope as the Synod on the Family comes to a close

bishops to consider new roles for way for an internal forum recognizing women, including women deacons. that each case is unique and must be His full remarks are available at engaged as such. http://ncronline.org/blogs/ncr-today/ Disappointing most Catholics, the canadian-archbishops-full-remarks- final document left most of the synod-women-deacons. necessary discussions about LGBT FutureChurch responded quickly Catholics for another day, repeated by launching an online petition the language of dignity, reaffirmed supporting Durocher’s effort. the Church’s opposition to marriage FutureChurch also reached out to equality, but also included the Deborah Rose-Milavec asks a question during a press briefing individual members at the synod language of accompaniment so at the Synod on the Family in Rome. asking them to support his efforts that “all may learn to take off his on the synod floor. The petition sandals before the sacred ground of As the Ordinary Synod on the Family garnered over 8300 signatures in just the other” (cf. Ex. 3:5), a powerful came to a close, the Bishop of Rome a few days. Deborah Rose-Milavec, exhortation to put away destructive along with a strong contingent of allies who was covering the synod for old judgments. are working to untie a few knots. FutureChurch, met with Archbishop While the final relatio did not sort out all Shifting to a new format for the Durocher in Rome to express synod -- small groups -- Pope gratitude, talk about future strategies the thorny questions, it did make a start. Francis separated the power brokers, and to deliver the signatures. In turn, The process itself is nothing short of contained their influence, and got Archbishop Durocher expressed his revolutionary in the staid environment people talking at a deeper level than willingness to continue to bring these of synodal worlds where bishops in previous synods. That made a issues forward in his own conference. historically rubber-stamp papal difference even if the final document The efforts of the auditors, pronouncements. fell short on many counts. Archbishop Durocher, and others What the document could not In many of the thirteen language found their way, in part, into the final adequately capture was the groups, bishops listened and learned, relatio, which stated that the church transformative power of a Francis something the Pope encouraged should show, “greater recognition synod. Hearts were changed. during his remarks at the 50th of their [women] responsibility in Bishops and Cardinals vowed to go anniversary celebration of the the church: their participation in back to their dioceses and listen with establishment of the synod. The decision-making processes, their more openness to the People of God. stories they heard changed them participation in the governance of They promised to listen rather than making room for new conversations some institutions, their involvement in judge. Cardinal Donald Wuerl said about how to be pastoral. Some the formation of ordained ministers.” it best: “No longer is the framework bishops called for discarding The German contingent of bishops of the church’s pastoral response the destructive terms like “intrinsically wielded strong influence because code of canon law” (America, 24 Oct disordered” recognzing that “words they approached the issues with 15). are worlds.” theological sophistication and were Francis has set the Catholic Church Interventions by auditors Sr. Maureen able to come to a consensus on on a new path toward synodality, an Kelleher, Sharron Cole and Sr. divisive issues despite the wildly organizing principle that needs to Carmen Sammutt, as well as voting differing positions of Cardinals include full participation of the laity members like Archbishop Paul-Andre Walter Kasper and Gerhard Mueller. as well. This is a time of change and Durocher and Archabbot Jeremias In the end they offered a pathway moving forward. Schroder raised awareness about to the sacraments for divorced Read FutureChurch’s posts from violence against women, the need for and remarried Catholics and a Rome at futurechurch-blog.org. The gender equality in the Church and in firm position on gender equality. final synod document can be read at society, and, surprisingly, the need for And while the final document http://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/ women deacons. did not explicitly open the doors to Communion for divorced and synod/documents/rc_synod_ Canadian Archbishop Durocher, in remarried Catholics, it opened the doc_20151026_relazione-finale-xiv- his three-minute intervention, urged assemblea_en.html).

SIX | WINTER 2016 Final vote onoverall document contentiousMost paragraphs: Number of paragraphs in final document; (4 –English, 3–French, 2–Spanish, 3–Italian, 1–German) Number of small language groups: Number of women: (17 couples, 17 singles) Number of auditors: Number of fraternal delegates: Number of interventions: Number of voting members: committee onthe drafting Number of members Year ends of Mercy English translation of final document released Year begins of Mercy Pope issues Apostolic Exhortation Pope final homily Pope closing remarks Synod commission (12 elected of 15) SynodOrdinary closes -Final relatio Pope Francis at of Synod 50th anniversary exhortation SynodOrdinary opens Pope Francis issues motu proprio onannulments Pope Francis issues indulgences-Year of Mercy Working document (Instrumentum Laboris) Pope Francis announces Year of Mercy Preparatory document for 2015 Synod Ordinary Synod closes -FinalExtraordinary relatio Midterm document Synod opens Extraordinary Pope Francis appoints commission to annulments study Working document (Instrumentum Laboris) Cardinal Walter addresses Kasper cardinals Evangelii Gaudium released Preparatory document released w/38 question survey Pope Francis calls synod Pope Francis appoints Cardinal Lorenzo Baldisseri statistics timeline Synod ontheFamily: QuickFacts Sept 2013 94 10 13,Dec 2015 24,Oct 2015 17,Oct 2015 2015Sept 8, Sept 1, 2015 June 2015 2014December 19,Oct 2014 Sept 2014 June 2014 Feb 2014 Nov 2013 voted to approve to voted 177 of 265 (64/190)#86 (80/178), #85 (72/187),#84 13 30 51 14 328 270 Nov 20, 2016 2015 8, Dec TBD 25, 2015Oct 24,Oct 2015 24,Oct 2015 4, 2015Oct April 11, 2015 13,Oct 2014 5, 2014Oct Nov 2013 2013 8, Oct

Continues Teleconference Series women into more equitableroles raising awareness andbringing instituted amodelfor of India was released in2010,theBishops Catholic Church ofIndia. When it Policy theGender ofthe drafting talkedaboutherwork Gajiwala AugustIn 2015,Astrid Lobo morelearn abouttheirfaithinaction. is aresource for to Catholics hungry The FutureChurch teleconference series future oftheChurch. Stay tuned. panel discussionto talkaboutthe organizing across-generational the diaconate. We willalsobe and women who feel calledto inthefield with bothexperts teleconferences onwomen deacons is planninganumberof FutureChurch thespring In for theChurch today. power oftheimageandrole ofMary Dr. and Johnsontraced thehistory Referring first to herhistorical roots, Please Stand Up?” Mary the Real ofJesusentitled the Mother “Will with apresentation aboutMary, ofNazareth Project launch theMary Johnson, CSJhelpedFutureChurch September,In Dr. Elizabeth in/downloadmat/gender_policy.pdf Church goto: http://cbci. ofIndia Policythe Gender oftheCatholic full support. To more learn about asked women toitwiththeir draft was unusual becausethebishops Astrid commented that thepolicy andintheChurch. in society You canlisten to the podcasts futurechurch.org/podcasts. by going to ourwebsite: WINTER 2016| WINTER September 2015 Johnson, CSJ, Dr.Right: Elizabeth August 2015 Gajiwala, Left: Astrid Lobo

SEVEN

From the Program Director FutureChurch Harnesses the Power of Social Media to Broaden its Reach

According to the Synod, they likely discovered some optional celibacy for priests at their internet giant of FutureChurch’s posts regardless of general assemblies with a view to Google, nearly 60% their prior knowledge of or affiliation presenting concrete suggestions for of people talk more with FutureChurch or its mission. In opening ordination to Pope Francis. online than they other words, FutureChurch was a part The #ReclaimMagdala campaign do in person. That of the online conversation being held launched shortly before the July 22 staggering statistic around the world by Catholics of all feast day of Mary of Magdala. While is a clear indicator of stripes, including many of the bishops the campaign was used to Celebrate how who were also Tweeting from Rome. Mary of Magdala and to promote Mary much the internet and digital technology Harnessing this potential, of Magdala celebrations throughout have changed the way people access, FutureChurch launched two hashtag the world, it also provided a means consume, and engage with information campaigns this summer aimed at to respond to the Prayer for Mercy, and each other since FutureChurch was engaging Catholics in two major which had been composed for the founded 25 years ago. projects: educating Catholics about Jubilee Year of Mercy and perpetuates While FutureChurch continues to root the priest shortage and telling the true the historically inaccurate portrayal of itself in the efforts of parish-based story of Mary of Magdala. Mary of Magdala as a prostitute and Catholics, there is no denying the The hashtag #OpenOrdination public sinner. enormous potential that the internet campaign launched in response to Through the #ReclaimMagdala offers for the work of Church reform campaign, FutureChurch and its and renewal, particularly when it friends and followers drove social comes to disseminating information media users to its online petition and educating Catholics worldwide. which challenged the inaccuracy of Like FutureChurch’s website, the Prayer for Mercy and called for futurechurch.org, where Catholics a public correction from the Vatican from around the globe can view and on Mary of Magdala. 1,500 people download FutureChurch resources signed the petition, which was hand for use with their communities, delivered during the Synod on the social media platforms such as Family to the Pontifical Council and Facebook have the the latest figures from The Center for for the Promotion of the New potential to expand and strengthen Applied Research on the Apostolate Evangelization, the body charged with FutureChurch’s reach and impact. (CARA) at Georgetown University, overseeing the Year of Mercy. Perhaps the most popular way to which showed the continuing trend As the priest shortage continues expand one’s reach and impact of closing parishes in response to the to loom and gifted and called on social media these days, is the critical shortage of priests in the United individuals are turned away from “hashtag.”—formerly known as States. Using the #OpenOrdination ordained ministry, FutureChurch simply the number or pound sign(#) hashtag, FutureChurch and its friends remains committed to educating and on your touchtone phone. and followers were able to educate engaging Catholic—lay and ordained, people online not only about the priest A hashtag labels or categorizes in the pews and online, at the parish shortage and parish closing but about and institutional levels —on the posts by theme, current event, or the need for optional celibacy, women interest. Using hashtags allows critical challenges and opportunities deacons, and alternatives to closing confronting the People of God. As FutureChurch to connect with and parishes as well. engage individuals who are interested we celebrate 25th Anniversary of in or talking about the same issues, The #OpenOrdination campaign FutureChurch, the use of social media themes, or events. For instance, when brought 700 new signers to is just example of how FutureChurch FutureChurch was Tweeting (posting FutureChurch’s 2014 Open Letter is celebrating the past and looking to Twitter) during the Synod on the to the United States Council of forward to the future. Family in Rome, it used the hashtag Catholic Bishops – nearly doubling the previous number of signatures on #Synod15 which was being used by RUSS PETRUS millions of others to report on, follow the letter. The letter calls for an open and talk about the Synod. If people a discussion of the priest shortage, were looking for posts about the parish closings, women deacons, and

EIGHT | WINTER 2016 Updated Priesthood Sunday Celebrations FutureChurch Welcomes

Over 60 Priesthood Sunday Celebrations Luke Hansen, S.J. were held on or around this year’s FutureChurch is pleased to Priesthood Sunday on October 25th, welcome Luke Hansen, S.J., including 8 international celebrations onto our team as an intern in Canada, Germany, Norway, and the for our Women Deacons United Kingdom. project. Luke is a Master The celebrations came shortly after of Divinity student at the the Center for Applied Research in the Jesuit School of Theology in Apostolate (CARA) at Georgetown University released new numbers Berkeley, California, on track revealing the devastating consequences of the priest shortage in the US. towards ordination in the Society of Jesus. Luke is working with FutureChurch as a part of his field According to CARA, the total number of diocesan priests in the United education. States dropped from 27,182 in 2010 to 25,868 in 2015—a reduction of 1,314. The percentage of priests available for active also ministry When asked why he was interested in working dropped from 68 percent to 66 percent in the same span of time. with FutureChurch, Luke reflects, “I admire In 2015 just over 17,000 diocesan priests were available for active FutureChurch’s consistent witness over 25 years. ministry. This data reinforces the validity of the prediction that CARA It is an organization full of people who love the made in 2009 that nearly half of all currently active priests would retire church and want the church to better serve its by 2019. mission. Supporters of FutureChurch are deeply rooted, spiritually, and have always valued parish Perhaps even more troubling, however, is how these numbers play out in life and dialogue with church leaders.” the lives of everyday Catholics. Despite a growing Catholic population, the priest shortage has prompted the closing of more than 620 parishes Luke hopes to make the most of this field in just the last five years, displacing hundreds of thousands of Catholics. education working for the ordination of women deacons. “Women are already serving in some Since 2010, Priesthood Sunday has provided the opportunity for diaconal roles, but the church is unnecessarily FutureChurch members and supporters to educate others about the denying them the grace of the sacrament of Holy priest shortage crisis in their community and to advocate for married Orders. Pope Benedict and Pope Francis have called priests and women deacons as ways to mitigate the crisis. The new for greater roles for women in the ministry of the organizing kit for Priesthood Sunday 2015 offered resources on optional church. To ordain women as deacons would make celibacy and women deacons including a completely updated “Brief this call real.” History of Celibacy in the Catholic Church.” This history includes statements by Pope Francis and bishops around the world; a brand new Opening ordination to women deacons is a “10 Reasons to Allow Married Priesthood” with the latest polling data deeply personal cause for Luke, who notes, “I have and news of developments in the Church, along with a revised version of met women who are drawn to these ministries “7 Reasons to Restore Women Deacons.” and have experienced a call from God and their community to serve as deacons. We need them. On February 24, 2015, The National Catholic Reporter published There is no legitimate reason to exclude them.” research conducted by Jack Ruhl, professor of accountancy at Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo. The evidence indicates that 74 Luke reflects that through his experience in a percent of diocesan pension plans for priests are severely underfunded. number of different ministries, “I have begun to If these plans were subject to the Department of Labor requirements understand -- as a man, a member of a religious for most pension plans, diocesan pension program would have to order, and a candidate for priesthood -- how adapt immediate strategies and plans to improve and rehabilitate their much privilege I have in the church, and I have funding. experienced God calling me to become more involved in the renewal of the Catholic Church.” Along with resources addressing the priest shortage, optional celibacy and women deacons, the 2015 Priesthood Sunday Celebrations Luke’s work will include the development of new included several new resources on priestly retirement and an interactive resources exploring the history, theology and spreadsheet with all of the data collected by Jack Ruhl, a suggested opportunities for women discerning a call to the letter to bishops on behalf of retired priests, a prayer service for retiring permanent diaconate. priests, a prayer for retired priests, and a litany for retiring priests. We are happy to welcome Luke and we pray for God’s blessings on his time with FutureChurch Go to futurechurch.org to learn more. and beyond!

WINTER 2016 | NINE FutureChurch helps New York parishioners defend canonical rights

Catholics from over 25 parishes the New York Times that it had been an oversight and in the Archdiocese of New York the archdiocese had intended to post the decrees all appealed November 2nd 2014 along. For many New York Catholics, these comments and May 2015 announcements by constituted a new low in credibility. The same Times Cardinal Timothy Dolan that would story documented that while the archdiocese routinely merge 149 of the archdiocese’s 368 touts the democratic nature of its Making All Things New parishes. Sadly, the archdiocese reconfiguration process, many final decisions contradicted initially obstructed parishioners’ recommendations from the parish committees. rights to appeal by refusing to make public the canonical decrees giving reasons for each merger. FutureChurch Emerita, Sr. Chris Schenk volunteers as These documents are required for any appeal to the Vatican. a liaison working closely with canon lawyer Sr. Kate Kuenstler to support beleaguered New York parishioners, A barrage of letters and telephone calls finally led to a handful who understandably feel betrayed by their episcopal people being permitted to view their individual decrees last leadership. At this writing, at least 15 New York appeals December but only by appointment and only under the have been accepted for review in Rome. Four were surveillance of diocesan personnel with no photographs or denied at least in part because of confusion caused by notes permitted. Because of the confusion and lack of access the Archdiocese’s failure to provide the decrees. Vatican to the decrees, many appeals were denied since appeal letters officials recently notified appealing parishioners that their must be sent within ten days of the date the decree was cases have been extended until November 2015. issued. It was only discovered in late December that decrees were dated November 2nd too late for many to appeal. In addition to the New York Archdiocese, FutureChurch has provided support and free resources to parishioners Finally, on February 11th 2015, after numerous requests across the U.S. and around the world over the past year. asking the Vatican to intervene, the archdiocese posted the decrees online. A spokesperson lamely explained to

Celebrating Mary of Magdala around the World Celebrating Mary of Magdala takes on At home in Cleveland, FutureChurch renewed purpose as Pope Francis calls was honored to host Sisters Rosemary for a more incisive role for women in Powers and Josie Chroniak, both the Church. By remembering Mary Sisters of the Humility of Mary, at of Magdala as the Apostle to the our July 22nd Mary of Magdala Apostles and trusted leader in the Celebration. The theme for the early Christian community, we can evening’s prayer was “Being a Witness uncover and restore the Church’s for the Victims of Human Trafficking.” Srs. Rosemary Powers and Josie Chroniak with Deb and Russ earliest tradition of male and female Through their work with the leadership, modeled on the inclusive Collaborative Initiative to End Human Listening to the stories of victims and to practice of Jesus. Trafficking, Sisters Rosemary and the story of the Resurrection, one couldn’t FutureChurch’s Magdala Project, Josie are shedding light on what they help but draw parallels between the now in its 19th year, continues to call “a hidden problem.” victims of modern day trafficking and the long tradition of “trafficking” Mary of inspire organizers and participants Their message was all the more Magdala’s false reputation as a prostitute or worldwide to tell the true story of Mary poignant within the context of public sinner. of Magdala. More than 200 organizers our touching Mary of Magdala held celebrations this summer to prayer service which paired the Neither Mary of Magdala nor the victims honor the July 22nd Feast of St. Mary first-person accounts of victims of of human trafficking are able to speak of Magdala. 29 celebrations were humantrafficking with John’s complete for themselves. It is up to us to be held outside of the United States in account of the exchange between witnesses for them, to tell their stories, Australia, Canada, France, Ireland, Mary of Magdala and Jesus at the to pull them out of the shadows cast by Mexico, the Netherlands, tomb on Easter morning. those who would use them for their own the United Kingdom, and Uganda. purposes and bring them into the light

TEN | WINTER 2016 Celebrating Mary of Magdela, continued from page 10 Mary of Nazareth Reimagined: of freedom to be who and what God has called them to be. Uncovering the riches of Mary’s life and tradition for Catholics today. FutureChurch calls on Pope Francis to Correct the Record on Mary of Magdala, for Mercy’s Sake! As much as any figure in our salvation history, Mary, the Mother of Jesus, has had a mixed reputation. On the In March of this year, Pope Francis announced a Jubilee one hand, she has been portrayed through a patriarchal Year of Mercy, calling on the entire Church to take up one tradition as a docile woman whose main duty in life of his papacy’s central themes. The jubilee year began was to obey all male authority. On the other hand, she on the feast of the Immaculate Conception, December has been understood as a liberator in her own right— 8, 2015 and will close on the feast of Christ the King, a woman close to God who spoke prophetically about November 20, 2016. God’s dream for the world. In May, the Pontifical Council for the Promotion of the In FutureChurch’s newest project, Reimaging Mary New Evangelization—the body charged with organizing of Nazareth, we offer educational resources tracing the details of the Year of Mercy—released the “Prayer Mary’s historical development from Jewish maiden to for Mercy” written especially for the Holy Year. While queen of the universe. The project, which will include much of the prayer is beautifully written, it falls short by a number of resource packets over the next two years, perpetuating the historically inaccurate portrayal of Mary uncovers the sources that shaped Mary’s history and of Magdala as a prostitute and public sinner by pairing explores empowering aspects within our tradition for her with the “adulteress.” Catholics today.

In response, FutureChurch launched a petition in July Resource Packet # 1: calling for a public correction on Mary of Magdala, saying Reinterpreting Our Lady of Guadalupe that “the portrayal of Mary of Magdala as a repentant prostitute has overshadowed her true role in the early In the first installment of this project, we provide Church and has contributed to the marginalization of a detailed study of the symbolism of Our Lady of women in the Church throughout the centuries and even Guadalupe. Contributor Dr. Jeannette Rodrigues shows to this day.” how the symbol of Guadalupe is a liberating and The petition went on to state that correcting the record empowering catalyst for all women. on Mary of Magdala “would provide a good historical and biblical starting point to discuss the role of women in Highlights of the Mary of Nazareth: the Church today”— a discussion that Pope Francis has called for numerous times. Our Lady of Guadalupe Resource In just three months, 1,500 people joined the call by Educational Resources on Mary from the Early Church signing onto the petition. In October, while in Rome for the to Modern Day by Mary Christine Athans Synod on the Family, FutureChurch Intern, Luke Hansen Educational Resources on the Symbolism of Our Lady S.J. and Executive Director, Deborah Rose-Milavec, hand of Guadalupe by Jeanette Rodriguez delivered the petition and the signatures to the office of Archbishop Fisichella, president of the Pontifical Council Reflections on Images and Readings Related to Our for the Promotion of the New Evangelization. Lady of Guadalupe by Judith Davis. FutureChurch concurrently released a new resource, #ReclaimMagdala, which compiled existing Mary of Prayer Service in Honor of Our Lady of Guadalupe Magdala educational resources and projects such as the by Christine Schenk, CSJ Gospel Restoration Project and Mary of Magdala Feast Day Celebrations into one convenient package. The resource also gives practical suggestions for telling the true story of Mary of Magdala online and in social media using the hashtag #ReclaimMagdala. The resource was a big hit with audiences at the 2015 Assembly of the Leadership Conference of Women Religious in Houston, the 2015 Women’s Ordination Worldwide Conference in Chicago and other venues.

WINTER 2016 | ELEVEN FutureChurch pilgrims in Greece follow in the footsteps of Lydia, Phoebe and other women of the early church

culmination of all the group had come to learn about the women who walked and lived lives of faith long before. From Lydia to Phoebe, Aquila to Chione, Agape to Athena, Irene to Iris— all came together to honor all that is holy and sacred. The prayer service written by Sr. Chris Schenk honored the God beyond all names.

The group sung a hymn by Bernadette Farrell the summed up the movement of hearts during the journey together FutureChurch pilgrims gather at the Island of Aegina in Greece. to the sites of ancient women leaders and worshipers in early Christianity Thirty one women and three men Wisdom and her three daughters, Faith, and beyond. from four countries traveled to Greece Hope and Love felt like old friends to with FutureChurch’s Deborah Rose- many as they moved from icon to icon God, beyond our dreams, you have Milavec and world-renowned scholar with the chanting of the Sunday liturgy stirred in us a memory, falling sweetly in the background. Sr. Carolyn Osiek to explore the sacred you have placed your powerful spirit ground where Christian women walked, in the hearts of humankind. worked and witnessed the message The controversies stirred by Paul and Silas in Thessaloniki that led to their of the Gospel. They also walked the God, beyond all names, you have expulsion took on new life as pilgrims paths where women sought solace and made us in your image, protection from the goddesses they traveled to Bereoa where the Jews were knew best, such as Athena, Artemis, more sympathetic to Paul’s preaching. we are like you, we reflect you, we Persephone and Afea. There we visited a place where he is are woman, we are man. said to have preached at the oldest Luke’s Acts of Apostles and the letters of synagogue. Paul came alive as the group arrived at the place where St. Paul first landed -- In Corinth, pilgrims visited the area where Paul first met Priscilla and Book Reviews the Port of Kavala near Philippi where he Master of disembarked. Aquila (Acts 18:1-3) and took up the trade of tent making with them. Ceremonies In Philippi they visited the place writen by Donald At the seaport of Cenchreae where Cozzens. Chicago, IL: where Lydia and her household met Phoebe the deacon lived (Rom Extenso Press, 2014 Paul and Silas and were baptized 16:1-2) the group walked on the Fr. Donald Cozzens’ first (Acts 16:11-15). Many felt inspired sacred ground where she once walked, book, The Changing Face as they stepped foot on sacred considered her witness and her work of the Priesthood, foreshadowed many of ground. The prayer service honored as well as her charge as a deacon in the challenging issues facing the Catholic Lydia and the women who lead in the carrying Paul’s letter to Rome. Church in the first decade of the twenty- church today. They also visited the first century. Now, in his first novel, Master the prison where Paul escaped after Pilgrims visited the shop of a priest of Ceremonies (MC), Cozzens, writer in an earthquake. and his family who painted original residence at John Carroll University, weaves icons, the Parthenon in Athens and In Thessaloniki, the group visited these issues into a compelling story of one the monasteries high on top of rock the Church of St. Demetrius where man’s revenge for clerical indiscretion. cliffs in Meteora. beautiful icons of women saints and martyrs filled the walls. Irene, On the island of Aegina at the When Fr. Bryn Martin was appointed Olympias, Annysia, Chione, Agape, Holy Temple of Afea pilgrims stopped and Master of Ceremonies to Wilfred held a beautiful prayer service—the Gunnison, Archbishop of Baltimore,

TWELVE | WINTER 2016 Book Reviews, continued from page 12 he never envisioned the web of intrigue and secrecy that this them, and (theoretically) on their behalf. These are voices that relationship would one day draw him into. In 2005 Martin is must be heard: Anne Arabome, SSS from Nigeria, Lisa Sowle named auxiliary bishop to the current bishop, Charles Cullen, just Cahill, past president of the Catholic Theological Society, as Gunnison is anticipating the celebration of his 50th Anniversary Astrid Gajiwala, member of Asian and Indian theological of ordination. associations and consultant for the Indian bishops, Elizabeth Sergeant Mark Anderlee returns from a tour of duty in Iraq in Johnson, CSJ, distinguished professor of theology at Fordham 2005 where, during a quiet night on patrol in Tikkrit, he recalled University, Gabriela Zingarini,OP, professor of religious studies a disturbing incident with his parish priest. Now back in at the Northern University of St. Thomas in Buenos Aires, Baltimore he is hell bent on retribution. With his determination Tina Beattie, professor of Catholic Studies at the University of driving the story, he brings out the worst in a band of characters Roehampton in London and 38 other women from different connected to the diocese including its chancellor/financial vicar, the countries, different cultural backgrounds, different perspectives. retired Archbishop Gunnison and “M”, a clandestine contact at the Each essay in this unusual collection of voices and experiences Vatican, all of whom are members of the Brotherhood of the Sacred brings to our understanding a vision that transcends one’s Purple, seeking to save the Church from its Vatican II liberals. particular and more limited perspective. An insightful comment The relationships that come to light both within the diocesan in the Foreword by Agbonkhianmeghe Orabator, SJ notes: leadership and those with an interest in the well-being of the “Compiled with a view to the 2015 Synod on the Family, this diocese from the outside create a network of secrecy and anthology reminds us that treating half the members of the suspicion that questions the integrity of the institution. As the body of Christ as outsiders or assigning the second-class status assault on the retired archbishop moves towards its climax, the is a detritus of history and tradition unsuited for the twenty -first intervention of a woman devoted through years of service to the century and unfounded in the gospel” (xiv). diocese and a close friend with CIA experience sacrifice their The essays in this collection reflect on the disparate situations security and good names to expose the truth. This is a saga of women across worlds: same sex marriage and the Catholic that in is akin to a blend of Dan Brown’s The DaVinci Code community, maternal mortality and reproductive rights, and James Patterson’s I, Alex Cross. Short chapters daring you women’s experience of celibacy, conscience and contraception, to put the book down before you dissect the next episode. poverty and exclusion, and the inevitable—and necessary-- A friend asked me after reading the book, “Is this all true? Do consideration of ”the role of women in the Church.” these things really happen in the church?” The intersection A final essay by Catherine Cavanaugh summarizes the current of events and motives portrayed in MC do not happen daily, dilemma. After reviewing current Church law pertinent to the but the shadow side of the church is always there in need of lives of women (“Only men can be priests…; only men can cleansing and reform. read the Gospel at Mass and preach…the positions of greatest Reviewed by Bill Plato decision-making power in the Church are held by priests… in the parish someone is ‘Father’…”) the author comments: Cathoic Women Speak: Bringing “We may disagree on…answers. But let us agree at least, Our Gifts to the Table all of us, to wrestle with the questions”( p. 182). Catholic Edited by the Catholic Women Speak Women Speak raises one significant question that we can Network. New York, Mahwah, NJ: Paulist no longer ignore:”What does the Church teach us through Press, 2015, 186 pp. its very structure about men, women, and families?” This anthology offers a forum for discussion that is both freeing and Did the representatives to the recent Synod on the Vocation and provocative. Mission of the Family hear the voices of women? Did they examine All of the essays in the book are short, often condensed versions the life experiences of women and girls within the family? Did they of longer and more detailed arguments that are referenced for hear about the many different kinds of families in the developed further and more detailed study. The bibliography alone is and vastly expanding developing world? If not, it could not have valuable. These essays call for wide discussion and prayerful been for lack of opportunity—or access to the voices of women in reflection on the roles of both women and men in the Body of North America, Europe, Africa, the Middle East and the rest of the Christ. Neither society nor the Church can survive without the developing and ever-changing world. presence and power of women or without the voices of those Catholic Women Speak, Bringing Our Gifts to the Table emerged who continue their struggle to be heard. Catholic Women Speak from a network of over 700 women from across continents who is a powerful and confirming message for those who already bring their insights, experiences, theological expertise, and vision know the struggle—and for those who need to be reminded of it. to the attention of those who legislate about them, for Reviewed by Diana Culbertson, OP

WINTER 2016 | THIRTEEN Women Witnesses of Mercy Celebrating the Extraordinary Witness of Women During the Year of Mercy

Earlier this year, during a Lenten entitled “Dancing Monk.” Her work is also featured in penitential service in St. Peter’s Basilica, the 2016 “A Fire in their Hearts” calendar that includes Pope Francis said he has “thought quotations from Joan Chittister. often about how the church can make more evident its mission of being a witness of mercy” and Attendees at the 2015 Call to Action Conference in announced a Holy Year of Mercy, to be celebrated from Dec. Milwaukee were treated to a sneak preview of the Women 8, 2015…until Nov. 20, 2016. “I am convinced that the whole Witnesses of Mercy resource at a prayer service hosted church…will find in this jubilee the joy to rediscover and by FutureChurch. The response to the service was render fruitful the mercy of God, with which we are all called overwhelmingly positive and FutureChurch has fielded to give consolation to every man and woman of our time,” dozens of requests by attendees to celebrate the prayer Francis continued. service in their own communities. The prayer service incorporated a Litany to Women Witnesses of Mercy To celebrate the Year of Mercy, FutureChurch is releasing and an anointing, which were both developed as prayer a new subscription series of resources entitled “Women resources for Women Witnesses of Mercy. Rhonda Miska, Witnesses of Mercy: Celebrating the Extraordinary Witness of the Catholic Women Speak Network, preached and of Women During the Year of Mercy.” Each month’s offered her perspectives on mercy. Rhonda’s insightful release will feature a new woman and her witness to and challenging homily—along with other reflections on mercy. In addition to each woman’s inspiring story, mercy by women—will also be included in the resource. there will also be articles with connections to the Works of Mercy and Catholic social teaching, resources for This series will launch in December by remembering individual and communal prayer, questions for group Dorothy Kazel, Ita Ford, Maura Clarke, and Jean Donovan conversation, and suggestions to help readers and who were martyred in El Salvador thirty-five years ago this participants become witnesses of mercy in their own year. It will conclude in November 2016 by highlighting community. FutureChurch co-founder, Sister Christine Schenk, whose tireless work to uncover evidence of women officeholders In addition to all of those great resources, FutureChurch in the early Church has called attention to our foremothers has commissioned artist, Marcy Hall, to paint new icons in faith and advanced the cause of gender equality in for each of the women witnesses. Marcy Hall is a self- the Church. Other witnesses include Helen Prejean, taught artist based in Erie, Pennsylvania, whose art is who works to end the death penalty in the United sold all over the world. Marcy recently worked with Abbey States; Antona Ebo, one of the “Selma Sisters” and civil of the Arts—an online community offering opportunities rights pioneer; and Dorothy Stang, an advocate for the to integrate contemplative spiritual practice and creative environment and the landless who was martyred in Brazil expression with monastic spirituality. Her series is in 2005. $ Yes! I want to JOIN and DONATE to support the work of FutureChurch Donate $125 or more and you will receive Catholic Women Speak, an to the 2015 Family Synod. Published by Paulist Press, this will be a exciting resource currently being developed and published from the treasured resource as we approach the final phase of the synod process. perspective of women in the Church in time for the 2015 Family Synod Become a monthly contributor at $15/month or more and receive A Church with our thanks.This remarkable resource will feature the writings and with Open Doors: Catholic Ecclesiology for the Third Millennium, edited by reflections of Catholic women theologians (Sr. Elizabeth Johnson, Sr. Richard Gaillardetz and Edward P. Hahnenberg. Margaret Farley, etc.), ministers, activists and others on key issues relating

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but at least of one of its more prominent inconclusive document, which stated that Ordain Catholic Women members, Cipriano Vagaggini. By 1974, a male and female deacons had different as Deacons journal of the Pontifical Oriental Institute roles in the early church, that priesthood in Rome published Vagaggini’s densely and the diaconate are separate and By Phyllis Zagano (Excerpted from Harvard reasoned historical and theological distinct ministries, and that the question Divinity Bulletin, SUMMER/AUTUMN 2015 findings in Italian: yes, women had been of admitting women to the diaconate was (VOL. 43, NOS. 3 & 4) ordained as deacons and could be so something for the church’s “ministry of ordained again. discernment” to decide. Much of the World may be charmed by In 1976, the Congregation for the The reconfigured subcommittee, Pope Francis, but what has he done to Doctrine of the Faith, the curial chaired by one of Cardinal Ratzinger’s include women as decision makers in office responsible for matters of faith former Regensburg students, Henrique the Catholic Church? More to the point, and morals, published its opinion Noronha de Galvão, produced a what can he do? that women could not be ordained second study that strangely misses The Catholic Church teaches it cannot as priests with the document Inter much of the history about women reverse Jesus’s decision to choose Insigniores. The question of women deacons despite its thirty thousand male apostles, predecessors to priests deacons was specifically omitted. words. Further, the study implies that and bishops. Sacramental power and Then, in 1994, Pope John Paul II the person ordained as deacon must juridical authority come with priestly issued a four-paragraph Apostolic image Christ, especially in uncited ordination and episcopal . Letter, Ordinatio Sacerdotalis affirming passages from and paraphrases of an Barred from these, women can that the ban on women priests earlier book by subcommittee member cooperate with but not share authority. “pertains to the Church’s divine Gerhard L. Müller, who was named Such is not necessarily the case. In constitution” and that the Church’s bishop of Regensburg just days after order to fully hold (the canonical word determination that it did not have the the document’s publication. Müller, is “obtain”) certain church offices, an authority to ordain women as priests appointed prefect of the Congregation individual must be a cleric, not a lay, or “is to be definitively held by all the for the Doctrine of the Faith seven non-ordained, person. But priest and Church’s faithful.” The statement months before Benedict XVI resigned bishop are not the only clerical ranks in raised several areas of concern, not the and affirmed by Francis, is also editor the church. Deacons are also ordained least of which was dueling opinions on of the “Opera Omnia,” the collected clerics, and history documents women whether it is “infallible.” Notably, the writings of Joseph Ratzinger. ordained to the diaconate from the document does not mention women While Francis may be interested in earliest centuries of Christianity to deacons. better situating women within Church the Middle Ages, when the diaconate If the ban on women priests is governance and ministry, and even faded as a separate order. As priests permanent and binding, then the though there is sufficient theological absorbed the work of deacons, restoration of women to the ordained evidence to readmit women to the ordination to the diaconate became diaconate becomes less complicated, order of deacon, significant curial simply a step in the cursus honorum on specifically because the current practice roadblocks keep him from moving in the way to priesthood. Fewer and fewer of not ordaining women deacons is the obvious direction. Women deacons women—mostly monastic abbesses— arguably a “merely ecclesiastical could take up significant posts, at the were ordained as deacons, primarily for law”—a regulation, not a doctrine. Vatican and around the world. Women service within their own convents. deacons could even become cardinals. In 2002, the International Theological However, the Catholic Church restored But in 2008 the Congregation for Commission, a body within the the diaconate as a permanent grade the Doctrine of the Faith decreed Congregation for the Doctrine of of order following the Second Vatican ordination of women a crime worthy of the Faith, published a long-awaited Council. Some bishops actually automatic excommunication. study document on the diaconate. It brought up the historical fact of women appears that a subcommittee in the Francis calls priesthood’s connection to deacons during conciliar debate, but International Theological Commission’s power and authority problematic. But if the promulgated documents clearly 1992–97 session completed a priesthood is the problem barring women specify only men would be called to the seventeen- or eighteen-page positive from a “more incisive presence in the order of deacon. When Pope Paul VI document about women deacons that Church,” the diaconate is the solution. restored the diaconate as a permanent its then-president, Joseph Cardinal grade of order for the entire Church Find the complete article with references Ratzinger, refused to sign. Finally, at http://bulletin.hds.harvard.edu/ (it never fully disappeared in the in 2002, the ensuing International articles/summerautumn2015/ordain- Eastern Catholic Churches), he asked Theological Commission session catholic-women-deacons about women deacons, possibly of the approved a much longer and relatively International Theological Commission

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Focus FutureChurch Pope Francis stirs Catholics to action in the United States In September 2015, Women’s Ordination Worldwide held an FutureChurch Calendar of Events international conference in Philadelphia to raise up women’s voices and to draw attention to the ways that the Catholic Church under Women Witnesses of Mercy Series continues Pope Francis is still lagging in terms of gender equality. FutureChurch with new resources each month participated in the conference. Executive Director Deborah Rose- March 8, 2016 Milavec gave a workshop on “Complementarity: A New Name for a Bad “Is There Room for Women?” Voices of Old Idea.” She presented the history of the concept, demonstrated Faith event with panel discussion inside the how it made its way into the Catholic lexicon and what we need to do to Vatican educate Catholics about its pitfalls. To schedule a similar presentation in your local community write to [email protected]. March 2016 Re-imagining Mary of Nazareth: Church 4 All Coalition urges Church leaders to include all The Feast of the Annunciation families at the World Meeting of Families New Resource available in early March A coalition of Catholic reform organizations that included FutureChurch developed a website with prayer, educational and April 24 – 30, 2016 media resources in preparation for Pope Francis’s visit to the United Upstate New York States and the World Meeting of Families. Prior to the opening of the What happened at the Synod on the meeting, Catholics marched in Philadelphia, held a rally and prayer Family? Upstate NY thruway tour service and talked with media representatives about the need for April and May 2016 (Dates TBD) more inclusion and representation of all families, including divorced Women Deacons teleconference series and remarried Catholics, at the Worldmeeting.

April 15, 2016 FutureChurch and International Priests urge Pope Francis New York City to keep parishes open The Catholic Church: What Will I Tell Prior to Pope Francis’s visit, FutureChurch and six international My Daughter and Should She Stay? Priest Associations, including the Association of U.S. Catholic Priests, FutureChurch 25th Anniversary event with launched an open letter asking Pope Francis to urge U.S. Bishops Natalia Imperatori-Lee, Rutgers Church, NYC to end parish closings and mergers and to find creative and pastoral Go to www.futurechurch.org to learn more! ways to keep local parish communities alive. To learn more or sign the petition go to action.groundswell-mvmt.org/petitions/pope-francis-help- us-build-the-church-by-keeping-our-parishes-open. Our US Postal PAPER newsletter is now being printed just two or three times each year. Support FutureChurch 1. Go to smile.amazon.com Please sign up TODAY for our in depth monthly when you make a 2. Choose FutureChurch E-Newsletter at www.futurechurch.org purchase on Amazon 3. Make your purchase

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