Full & equal participation by people of all genders
The Church, in fidelity to the gospel, must be open to the full and equal participation of women and people of all gender identities in all its ministries. We recognize a variety of ministries in the Roman Catholic Church, and we support ministries that meet the needs of the People of God.
Grassroots activism
We believe that real transformation in the Church will come from Catholics organizing in their local communities. We believe that providing educational resources will help empower and activate Catholics to foster change in the Church.
Diversity, inclusion, & racial justice
We believe we have a responsibility to dismantle oppression within ourselves, our Church and our society. As the Body of Christ, we value diverse identities and inclusion on individual and organizational levels.
Collective decision-making
Decisions affecting the life of the Church must reflect the experience and opinions of women as well as people of all gender identities in a democratic spirit. We believe building consensus is a way to value each person’s insights and wisdom.
Empowerment & participatory leadership
We believe all people should participate in making the decisions that affect them. We are certain the future of the church rests squarely on the knowledge, creativity, skills, leadership, and integrity of the whole church. Therefore, we advocate for church leadership to include the voices of all Catholics in decision-making processes.
Feminist, mujerista, womanist & trans thought & action
The hierarchy must not define male and female “roles” or perpetuate any system that defines or limits one’s gifts or calling on the basis of gender.
Social justice
A renewed priesthood will rebirth the church and transform unjust structures in the world community. We will model non-violent behavior and act for a peaceful world that cherishes each human being, our Earth, and her resources.
Anti-oppression
The Anti-Oppression Team is responsible for developing strategies that deepen WOC’s commitment to full inclusivity and equity within the structure of WOC itself and in the Roman Catholic Church. WOC values diverse identities, genders, and ministries as we strive to create a church and society where everyone is free to respond to God’s call without regard to race, sexual orientation, gender, or disability.
Our Long-Range Goals
In order to fulfill our vision and mission, our
long-range goals are to:
Reform the governance of the Catholic Church, including canon law, to be inclusive, accountable and transparent.
Bring about equality and justice for people of all genders in all dimensions of life and ministry in the Catholic Church.
Incorporate feminist, womanist, mujerista, and other liberating spiritualities into every-day Catholicism.