The podcast delves into the Eucharistic pilgrimage in San Francisco and the disconnect between Pope Francis' goals and the Synod's direction. It also explores Marco Rubio's criticism of McKinsey's involvement with China and delves into the controversial consulting on opioid sales in the US. Additionally, the value of Eucharistic processions, the symbolism of cathedrals, and Trinity Sunday are discussed.
Pope Francis firmly rejects sacramental ordination of women, aligning with Church teachings.
Historical deaconesses lacked sacramental consecration, serving distinct roles from male deacons.
Clarity from the Pope on female ordination aids constructive discussions for women's ministry roles.
Deep dives
Pope Francis's Position on Women's Ordination to the Clerical State
Pope Francis was directly asked about the possibility of the sacramental ordination of women to the clerical state. He offered a clear and emphatic rejection, stating that there is no room for the sacramental ordination of women. Despite previous study commissions and historical references to deaconesses, he firmly expressed that this is not a subject open to change within the Catholic Church.
The Role of Deaconesses in the Early Church and Current Discussions
Study commissions have examined the historical role of deaconesses in the early Church, noting that they did not receive sacramental consecration similar to male deacons. Their functions mainly centered around assisting with baptisms, particularly with female adult converts. Pope Francis emphasized that the historical deaconesses did not hold holy orders and clarifies that their functions were distinct from sacramental ordination as practiced with male deacons in the Church.
Pope Francis's Firm Stance on Sacred Orders and Past Discussions on Deaconesses
Pope Francis reiterated the Church's position on the sacred orders and highlighted the distinct roles of deaconesses in historical contexts. He affirmed that the ordination of women to the clerical state is not aligned with the Church's teachings. Despite ongoing debates and previous study commissions on the topic, Pope Francis affirmed a clear stance against the idea of ordaining women as deacons with holy orders, emphasizing the Church's historical and doctrinal continuity on this matter.
The Importance of Honoring Church Teachings on Female Ordination
Honoring the church's teachings on female ordination and recognizing them as unchangeable and divine is essential for maintaining the church's integrity and alignment with God's intentions.
Navigating Conversations on Ministerial Participation in the Church
Clear and unwavering stances from the Pope on limiting discussions on female ordination facilitate more constructive discussions on enhancing women's roles in ministry, allowing for creative and engaging conversations on broader participation within the church.
JD shares his experience at the launch of a Eucharistic pilgrimage in San Francisco on Sunday. Then, JD and Ed talk about the disconnect between Pope Francis’ stated goals for the Synod and the actual direction of the Synod.
This episode of The Pillar Podcast is sponsored by St. Bernard’s School of Theology and Ministry, a Catholic graduate school based in Rochester, NY.
Join them this summer in auditing one course entirely free - made possible by the Knights of Columbus Finger Lakes Chapter.