The following is a guest blog by Simona Prete, Head of Communications at the British Embassy to the Holy See
Empowerment, aspirations, voice, faith, women, church, end violence, are words which have been inspiring 2014 International Women’s Day across the world. A poignant moment in which women’s voices were listened to; and their role, their experience as women of faith as well in the society became visible.
Sister Eugenia Bonetti, who was recognised on 8 March 2014 by the President of Italy for her tireless work in the fight against human trafficking, chose to be accompanied at the ceremony by a woman, who had been trafficked and rescued from the street and reintegrated into society by the extraordinary team of nuns led by Sr Eugenia.
In London, the British Foreign Secretary William Hague gave voice to three Syrian women activists, inviting them to describe what the revolution meant to them and their aspirations for Syria’s future: “Helping to break down barriers that hold women back is a cause that every Foreign Minister should champion”.
This week, I attended a panel discussion organised by the Australian Embassy to the Holy See, on the theme: “The female face of the Vatican”. Professor Lucetta Scaraffia, Editor of the Osservatore Romano’s “Women, Church” World”, Ana Cristina Betencourt, Head of the Women’s Section at the Pontifical Council for the Laity, and Maria Cristina Carlo Stella, Office Manager at the Fabbrica di San Pietro, shared their experiences as women of faith working at the Holy See.
They agreed the current and next challenges for the Catholic Church would be: the lack of women in the decision-making positions, how to harness the true desire of women to participate and be an active part of the dialogue over the future of the Church, and the perceived lack of synergy between the various strands of the religious networks.
It is clear that Pope Francis is leading women towards a greater role, but how will the Catholic Church take full advantage of their spiritual treasure, experience, and the values they will bring? This is a key question which will need to be addressed.