What If I'm A Woman

[Guest Jen]

and that's the reason that's keeping me away from the Catholic Church?

I feel the call to preach, and I'm about to become a woman pastor, with the blessings of parents and community. My sermons are good.

I've just been having thoughts of enetering the Catholic Church, and I know they're against women. (pastors, that is)

[BLAZEr]

Jen,

Preaching isn't reserved to the priest except at mass. In the mass, preaching is tied to his apostolic authority (he speaks on behalf of the bishop). I know many women who have ministries where they give talks and lead catechetical instruction. I also have heard amesome 'sermons' from some of the Franciscan Sisters of the Renewal.

The Dominican Nuns are specifically consecrated to a life of preaching, as they belong to the Order of Preachers, its just that their preaching is lived out differently than the priests.

The question I think you have to ask yourself is do you like preaching because you're good at it and you like hearing yourself, or do you like preaching because it is a gift God has bestowed on you and you feel called to share it? If the latter is your reason, then nothing will stop you from preaching at every opportunity you have, sharing the Gospel with those you encounter.

God Bless!

St. Dominic, patron of preachers, pray for us!

[Pontifex]

I think we need to take caution with our terminology. Preaching, in its formal sense, is reserved for the clergy. Sharing reflections, and giving meditations outside of the Mass are permissible and greatly appreciated, but women do not give sermons. I have had my Spirit fed by many Holy Women, and I appreciate their insights. Yet the role of women is different in the Church, just as important, vitally important, but different.

If you feel you are called to Preach, in the formal sense, I would encourage you to look at your calling within the framework of Church Teaching. Our personal call must always line up with the call of the Church.

Peace,

Fr. Pontifex