Archbishop Arthur Roche, prefect of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Sacraments, released the Latin text and a letter Dec. 13, seven months after Pope Francis instituted the “ministry of catechist” as a formal office and vocation in the church.
Vatican releases text for installing catechists, explains ministry
Closing assembly, Latin American church leaders call for inclusive church
The assembly, which included laity, ended with a document calling for increased roles for women and excluded groups.
Catholic women’s group praised for witness of faith in challenging times
At the Aug. 26 Mass during the National Council of Catholic Women’s conference, Cardinal Gregory pointed out that just as St. Timothy was led in his faith by Lois and Eunice, his grandmother and mother, so many in the Church today “are lucky we have you.”
Religious minorities, women fear Afghanistan’s Taliban, other extremists
The 20-year American military presence in Afghanistan had hoped to bring stability and an end to its use as a terrorist sanctuary, but the tumultuous exit has laid open fears for the future.
Author brings St. Clare of Assisi out from shadow of St. Francis
Author brings a woman’s sense of perspective, a journalist’s nose for a story, as well as a scholar’s thoroughness to Clare of Assisi.
Lectors, acolytes: Formal installation means more than service at Mass
“The choice to confer also to women these offices, which entail stability, public recognition and a mandate on the part of the bishop, renders more effective in the church everyone’s participation in the work of evangelization,” the pope said.
Pope amends canon law so women can be installed as lectors, acolytes
Recognizing “the gifts of each baptized person” — women and men — Pope Francis ordered a change to canon law and liturgical norms so that women could be formally installed as lectors and acolytes.
Practical guide offers valuable advice on women’s ministry in church
“Joyful Momentum” by Elizabeth A. Tomlin summarizes why women’s ministries are critical to the hurting Church in our day.