New controversy is surrounding a recent statement by current Roman Catholic leader Pope Francis. Today (Tuesday, November 1st), the born-Argentinian stated that the ban on female priests is probably here to stay.
When a Swedish journalist asked him about the ban and the possibility of female priests in the near future, Pope Francis stated, “On the ordination of women in the Catholic Church, the last word is clear.” Referencing an apostolic letter written by former pope St. John Paul II, he said the letter will probably remain as the final decision.
When Pope Francis was ordained as the leader of the Roman Catholic Church in 2013, he was thought to be a progressive in the form of moving the Church to a more open-minded position. His beliefs such as taking action to reverse climate change and his pro-immigration stance prompted Catholics and non-Catholics alike to take a liking to him. I mean, he even said that Trump was “not a Christian” because of his absurd request to “build a wall” between the southern U.S. border and Mexico. What’s not to like about that?
But now, Francis’ stance on women being priests is anti-progressive and discouraging. Honestly, there is no reason women should be restricted from pursuing the priesthood. Yes, Jesus chose only men as his 12 apostles, but he had plenty of female disciples as well, notably Mary Magdalene who also assumed important roles in Jesus’ life and ministry.
So why does the highest office of the Roman Catholic Church refuse to acknowledge that there is absolutely no reason to not allow women to be priests? Old-fashioned traditions based in sexism. I am Catholic, and I attend a Catholic high school where I have a theology class every day. I am aware of the numerous outdated and anti-progressive traditions that are present in Catholic doctrines and teachings. Catholics need to understand that just because a teaching was created centuries ago, it doesn’t necessarily apply to our society today.
We have changed. We have evolved. Women should have the same opportunities as men to pursue Catholic priesthood. If we continue to cling to outdated doctrines, our Church will grow outdated along with them. We have to evolve with society so we can evolve into the best we can be. So, Pope Francis: reconsider allowing women to be priests.
