SOMETHING NEW IS HAPPENING… ARE WE GETTING THE BEST?

There is something unstoppable that is growing like a tide in different parts of the world: it is the awakening of women who are uniting and organizing to defend their dignity and help our society and Church move from patriarchal structures (which dehumanize both women and men) to sisterly relationships of reciprocity and mutual care.

This March 8, 2025, has been a date on which the growth and strengthening of women’s organizations has been evident in different parts of the world. But what is new around the world is the awakening of some groups of women in the Church, both lay and religious, who, taking the current framework of the synodal process seriously, are demanding real participation in decisions that affect ecclesial life.

Something is moving, and it is important that we take note and join in. Many women are organizing and supporting each other to ensure that the synodal process involves real inclusion in all spheres of ecclesial life. Pope Francis is giving us a boost in this regard, as, at his advanced age, he is capable of opening up and pushing for some changes in the Church. A concrete example is the election of women to fulfill responsibilities that were previously entrusted only to men (to date, the number of women in high positions in the Roman Curia has tripled). This undoubtedly marks a step forward in changing the sexist and clerical mentality and practices within the Church. But many challenges remain, and we have not yet achieved parity and equity in the various spheres of Church life.

As women, we must better prepare ourselves and join forces to push for the changes that a synodal Church demands. Without the inclusion of women (who, in quantity and quality, sustain the Church), synodality remains an empty rhetoric. From a synodal spirituality, as Dominican Missionaries we are challenged to be at the forefront of our commitment to the cause of women, especially the poorest women, as this is part of the founding charism of our Congregation.

For all women, whether lay or religious, the synodal process is an opportunity and a challenge that asks us to prepare ourselves to rise to the demands of these times our world and our Church are experiencing. Without a doubt, serious and in-depth formation must be one of the tools to awaken and spread our wings, to change our mindsets, our hearts, and our practices. But synodality also challenges us to walk together. Therefore, it is essential that as women we grow in sisterhood and know how to articulate and join forces. Building a different future in society and the Church lies in our ability to weave networks, build bridges, and forge alliances.

Geraldina Céspedes, OP