Theologian: Women's ordination will be a topic at Synod on Synodality – "no turning back"

Pastoral theologian Klara-Antonia Csiszar from Linz assumes that the ordination of women will be an issue at the Synod on Synodality in autumn, although it was excluded as a topic to be discussed in advance. As the "Religion ORF" portal reported on Thursday, Csiszar emphasised to Catholic media representatives in Vienna on Wednesday that there is "no turning back" on this issue. Although there will be no vote on the ordination of female deacons, the development towards more diversity within the church is on the right track, but will require patience, the theologian said.

In March, Pope Francis announced the establishment of ten study groups on reform topics. In addition to the training of priests, the role of bishops and fundamental questions of ministry, this also includes the topic of women's ordination and the possibility of a diaconate for women. A study group is now to look into this until 2025.

Unresolved theological questions

According to Csiszar, the biggest problem in the women's issue so far has been the "repraesentatio Christi", the sacramental action in the substitution of Christ. This is where theological questions remain unresolved. However, she herself believes that deacons and deaconesses could be separated from the three-tiered ordained ministry. Until that happens, Csiszar said, women could already be placed in possible leadership positions. Decision-making powers could also be shifted from Rome to the lower levels in order to make the church less centralised and more synodal. At the first Synod on Synodality Assembly last October, she experienced how important the diverse tables and the "immersion in the world of others" were, said Csiszar. Such a "spirit" could help to develop better church structures.

From 2 to 27 October 2024, the approximately 400 participants of the 16th General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops will meet in Rome for its second and final part. This will also mark the end of the Synod on Synodality, which opened in 2021. As the Pope has instructed the new study groups to submit their results to him by the end of June 2025, it is assumed that their topics will not be put to a vote at the Synod Assembly. (mtr)