Editor’s Note

Mar 10, 2024

Throughout history, women have played indispensable roles in nurturing faith, shaping the Church, and spreading the message of love and compassion — often quietly and behind the scenes. Yet, their contributions have been profound and enduring. From the early disciples who supported Jesus’ ministry to the courageous witness of the early Christian martyrs, and to the tireless dedication of modern-day women who have been the backbone of the Church, exemplifying the values of compassion, humility, and service.

Each year, March 8 marks International Women’s Day, a global celebration honouring the remarkable contributions of women worldwide. This year’s theme, Inspire Inclusion, deeply echoes the Catholic Church’s ongoing mission to embrace diversity and ensure that all voices are heard. In particular, we must consider the dual nature of women’s roles within the Church, embodying both the active service of Martha and the contemplative spirit of Mary.

In the Gospel of Luke, we encounter these two remarkable women who exemplify different dimensions of discipleship and a balanced life of service and prayer that women can aspire to be. Martha exemplifies the spirit of service, the active engagement in the Church’s mission, diligently attending to the practical needs of those around her. On the other hand, Mary demonstrates the contemplative aspect of discipleship, sitting at the feet of Jesus, eager to learn and absorb His teachings, emphasising the importance of prayer and reflection. Both Martha and Mary teach us that there is beauty and necessity in both action and contemplation, in service and reflection. It is not a matter of choosing either one, but rather embracing both aspects harmoniously.

Women bring unique perspectives, gifts, and talents that enrich the Church’s mission and help it better respond to the needs of the world. As Church, we are called to recognise and celebrate the diverse gifts of women, encompassing both the Martha-like service and the Mary-like reflection. This integration enriches our faith community, fostering a holistic approach to discipleship.

However, while women have made invaluable contributions, there’s still a crucial need for greater inclusion and representation within the Church hierarchy and decision-making processes. The call for synodality, emphasised by Pope Francis, invites all members of the Church, including women, to actively participate in discerning the path forward for our faith community. He has emphasised the need to break down the barriers that prevent women from fully exercising their God-given talents and leadership abilities. In his encyclical Fratelli Tutti, the Holy Father reminds us that “a truly fraternal society ... will allow women to occupy their rightful place.”

Pope Francis has also repeatedly called for a “Church that walks together,” emphasising the importance of listening to the voices of all the faithful, especially women. Let us heed the Holy Father’s call for inclusivity and actively encourage the participation of women at all levels of the Church.

To inspire inclusion in the Church means recognising and valuing the unique perspectives and insights that women bring to the table. It means empowering women to take on greater roles of responsibility and leadership within the Church hierarchy, including decision-making bodies and pastoral ministries. It means creating spaces where women are not only heard but actively listened to and respected.

Moreover, inspiring inclusion requires confronting the entrenched attitudes and prejudices that perpetuate gender inequality within our faith communities. It demands a commitment to education, dialogue, and cultural transformation, rooted in the Gospel values of justice, solidarity, and love. By fostering a culture of inclusion and equality, we can truly reflect the transformative message of the Gospel and build a more vibrant and flourishing faith community.

As we celebrate the achievements and contributions of women around the world, let us also recommit ourselves to building a Church where women are valued as equal partners in faith, service, and leadership. In doing so, we honour the legacy of those who have gone before us and pave the way for a more inclusive and vibrant future for the People of God.