Pope stresses "fundamental" value of women in Church

[Tom Rinaldo]

47. Yes. The same thing struck me.

His statement in no way equates with fundamental changes in the Church, nor does it promise that they might be forthcoming, but it quietly removes a bolt from the door even while the door remains closed. It is subtle, but it creates potential theological underpinnings for changes later.To point out that this Pope's language in this instance does not even remotely qualify as progressive in the secular world totally misses the point He is not engaged in a secular discussion. Revolution is not viewed as an option inside the Church. Change is only possible if achieved within the framework of dogma. That is what makes these comments interesting - it hints at how that may be possible regarding the future role of women in the Church. I am struck by the specific reference Francis made to historic bias as described here:

"He said that in the Bible, women were not recorded as witnesses to Christ's resurrection because of the Jewish Law of the time that did not deem women or children to be reliable witnesses."

He decouples Biblical tradition from "God's teaching". He acknowledges human fallacies that are reflected by what was recorded and what was not recorded in the Bible by men of that historical era. That strikes me as potentially theologically profound. Christ brought a "New Testament" that updates the Bible for practicing Christians. Christ appeared to Mary Magdalene as his witness etc.

By choosing this as a topic for some of his earliest statements (and actions as in the foot washing) Francis is essentially asking the Catholic Church to reflect further on the role of women in the Church that it may be freed from long lingering historical prejudice against women dating back to the time of Christ (and earlier). That in itself in no way promises that someday women will serve as Catholic Priests or even Popes, but it may become the theological camel's nose under the Catholic dogma tent.