Pope Francis: No To Female Deacons - Latest Stance & Why
Is the possibility of women serving as deacons within the Catholic Church truly off the table? Pope Francis, in recent pronouncements, has firmly reiterated his opposition to the ordination of women as deacons, solidifying a stance that has been consistently maintained throughout his papacy.
The Catholic Church's stance on the ordination of women has been a topic of considerable debate and discussion, particularly in recent years. The role of women within the Church, and the potential for their expanded participation in various ministries, has been a focus of dialogues, synods, and theological reflections. The current Pope, Francis, has consistently addressed the issue, providing clarity and direction.
| Name | Pope Francis |
| Full Name | Jorge Mario Bergoglio |
| Born | December 17, 1936 (age 87) |
| Birthplace | Buenos Aires, Argentina |
| Education | Master of Arts in Chemistry; Philosophy, Literature, Psychology |
| Religious Order | Society of Jesus (Jesuits) |
| Priesthood | Ordained December 13, 1969 |
| Episcopate | Ordained as Auxiliary Bishop of Buenos Aires, May 20, 1992 |
| Cardinalate | Created Cardinal by Pope John Paul II, February 21, 2001 |
| Papacy | Elected Pope March 13, 2013 |
| Key Actions and Positions | Emphasis on social justice, poverty, and environmental issues. Reform of the Vatican Curia. Dialogue and openness to different cultures. Strong focus on mercy and compassion. |
| Reference | Vatican Website - Pope Francis |
On May 21, 2024, CNA staff reported on Pope Francis' latest reiteration of his position. This instance, like others before, emphasized the Pope's firm opposition to the ordination of women to the diaconate. This position isn't new; it represents a continuation of the Holy Father's consistently held views on the matter. This declaration, made public by CNA, highlights the ongoing discussion surrounding women's roles within the Church and the interpretation of existing doctrines.
This viewpoint was further amplified when Pope Francis, during an interview with CBS's "60 Minutes," unequivocally stated "no" twice to the prospect of ordaining women deacons. The interview, which aired on Paramount Plus, saw the Pope address questions from Norah O'Donnell. When pressed by O'Donnell about whether he was "open to" a female diaconate, the Pope's reply was direct: "if it is deacons with holy orders." This response underscores the distinction between the role of deacons within the Church and the requirements for formal ordination.
The backdrop to these pronouncements includes ongoing discussions and studies within the Church. In March, the Pope initiated ten study groups composed of experts from around the world. These groups were tasked with delving deeper into complicated or controversial matters that were raised during the 2023 Synod of Bishops on Synodality. The aim of these groups is to provide a more in-depth reflection on complex issues.
The final document of the synod, which Pope Francis approved, acknowledged that women must be provided with every opportunity that Church law allows for them to act as leaders. It, however, left open the possibility of ordaining women. This approach highlights the careful balance within the Church of acknowledging women's contributions while remaining consistent with existing theological positions.
A study group, established under the direction of Pope Francis, is currently examining the possibility of women deacons. The group is expected to present its final report in June 2025. The work of this study group reflects the Church's desire to investigate the issues thoroughly while staying true to established traditions.
In contrast to the study groups, during a recent interview, the Pope emphasized the significance of women's roles within the Catholic Church. He described women as "the ones who move changes forward." This statement recognizes the contributions of women within the Church structure, even while specific issues like female diaconate remain under scrutiny. The comments highlight the need to examine women's work while addressing the complex issues of the Church's doctrine.
The issue of female deacons was notably addressed during the recent Synod of Bishops. Although the ordination of female deacons was not placed on the global assembly agenda, it has been marked for later consideration. The focus of these discussions will likely be on the theological and historical precedents involved.
It is important to understand the broader context of these discussions within the Church. This past weekend, the canonization of Argentina's first female saint, along with a meeting between Argentina's new president, Javier Milei, and Pope Francis, took place. These meetings demonstrate the diversity of the Church's discussions with global leaders and its internal focus on the role of women.
The first study commission focused on women deacons began in August 2016. Pope Francis established this commission to review the theology and historical context of the ministry of women deacons (or deaconesses) in the Roman Catholic Church. The report from this commission, however, was not published.
This complex issue has also involved the actions of other key figures within the Vatican. Argentine Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernandez noted that a commission on women deacons, established in 2020 and headed by Cardinal Giuseppe Petrocchi of Aquila, is continuing its work and is open to discussion. These actions reflect ongoing reflection and dialogue within the Church.
The Pope's statements against an ordained female diaconate have been consistent. He reaffirmed the impossibility of women becoming priests, or even modern church deacons, in an interview for a book released in Italy in October 2023. The consistent message is that the Church, under Pope Francis, is not moving toward ordaining women as deacons.
The Pope's strong views are influencing the future of this debate. During the final days of the most significant Catholic gathering since the 1960s, the ordination of women appeared off the table, at least during Francis's papacy. While discussions and study groups continue to delve into the theology and history of women's roles, the Pope's direct statements provide a clear direction.
The Church continues to look to the role of women. The naming of a French religious sister, Nathalie Becquart, as an undersecretary, placed a woman as the face of a traditionally male forum. The church, as an evolving institution, is constantly addressing new issues. While the questions surrounding the female diaconate are complex and multifaceted, the Pope's firm stance provides a clear direction for the present, even as discussions continue for the future.
