From the Editor’s Desk

Mar 07, 2025

By Patricia Pereira
International Women’s Day, observed annually on March 8, offers a powerful moment to honour the immeasurable contributions of women to society, family, and the Church. Women have always been at the heart of the Church’s life and mission. From the Blessed Virgin Mary, who said “yes” to God and brought Christ into the world, to Mary Magdalene, the first apostle, women have been bold witnesses of faith, courage, and love. Today, women continue to serve as pillars of strength, guiding the faithful with their steadfast commitment to prayer, service, and leadership.

Pope Francis has consistently highlighted the dignity and vital importance of women, advocating for their greater participation in the life of the Church. His papacy has seen women appointed to significant roles, such as in the Vatican’s Secretariat for the Economy, the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, and as the first female governor of Vatican City State. These milestones reflect a growing recognition of the unique talents, wisdom, and contributions of women within the Church. Pope Francis’ vision is clear — the Church must reflect the beauty and diversity of the people of God, and women must also be at the forefront of its leadership.

Perhaps the most significant step under Pope Francis’ leadership has been his call for greater inclusion of women in decision-making roles. The establishment of the Women’s Consultative Group within the Vatican demonstrates his deep commitment to listening to women on critical issues affecting the Church. It acknowledges that women’s voices must be not only heard but actively integrated into the leadership and governance of the Church. This is a call for justice, equality, and empowerment — a call that we must answer as a community of faith.

The role of women in family life is irreplaceable. Women often serve as the heart and foundation of the family, nurturing their loved ones with care, compassion, and wisdom. Pope Francis has frequently emphasised this, particularly in Amoris Laetitia, where he describes women as the “heart” of the family. In a world where family life is increasingly challenged by external pressures, women’s steadfastness provides the emotional and spiritual strength that holds families together.

The vocation of motherhood is both beautiful and demanding, yet Pope Francis recognises the difficulties women face in balancing this sacred calling with the pressures of modern society. He calls for a greater societal acknowledgment of women’s contributions to family life, urging greater support for mothers and families.

But women’s impact goes beyond the home. Women are leaders in politics, education, business, and social justice across the globe. Those who balance professional life with family responsibilities are especially remarkable. Figures like Jacinda Ardern, the former Prime Minister of New Zealand, and Angela Merkel, the former Chancellor of Germany, have demonstrated how it is possible to lead with strength and integrity while upholding personal values and nurturing family life. These women show us the power of resilience, faith, and the ability to make a difference in the world while remaining deeply connected to their families.

Catholic women also embody the transformative power of faith and action. Sr Norma Pimentel, a Missionary of Jesus, has dedicated her life to serving migrant communities, and Dr Helen Alvaré, a legal scholar and pro-life advocate, demonstrates how faith and expertise can come together to create lasting change. These women, together with so many others, remind us of the incredible ways women live out their faith and contribute to society.

In this Jubilee Year, a time of reflection, renewal, and reconciliation, let us remember the many ways women contribute to building the Kingdom of God on earth. Let us embrace this moment to not only celebrate but also to deepen our commitment to supporting and empowering women in every area of life — whether as mothers, leaders, caregivers, or professionals.

Just as the Church is the body of Christ, with each member serving a unique and indispensable role, so too must the contributions of women be fully integrated into the life of the Church and society. Together, we must work toward a world where every woman is empowered to live her full potential, supported by the love of her faith, her family, and her community.

As we reflect on the beauty of the maternal vocation and the strength of women everywhere, may we always strive for greater inclusion and equality. The strength of women is the strength of the Church and the world. Just as the Blessed Virgin Mary’s “yes” to God changed the world forever, so too can the “yes” of women in our lives — whether in the home, the workplace, or the Church — continue to transform our world for the better. May we all be inspired to say “yes” alongside them, working together to build a more compassionate, just, and loving world for all.