Pope Benedict XVI’s resignation inspires hope for expanding women’s role in church
NEWARK — For those hoping to change the role of women in the Catholic Church, Pope Benedict XVI’s tenure did not inspire much hope.
During his eight years as pope, the Vatican reaffirmed the church’s ban on women priests and publicly rebuked American nuns for promoting "radical feminist" causes.
But with a new pope comes new hope.
As Benedict prepares to become the first pontiff in 600 years to voluntarily step down, reformers are advocating for the church to choose a new leader open to hearing new ideas.
"As Roman Catholics worldwide prepare for the conclave, we are reminded that the current system remains an ‘old boys club’ and does not allow for women’s voices to participate in the decision of the next leader of our church," said Erin Saiz Hanna, executive director of the Women’s Ordination Conference, a group advocating for female priests. Continued