A Prayer to St. Hildegard Inspired by Pope Benedict for Roman Catholic Womenpriests

Pope Benedict concluded his comments on St. Hildegard in the following prayer: "Her vast learning and spiritual authority also led her to work for the renewal of the Church in her day. Through Saint Hildegard’s intercession, let us ask the Spirit to raise up wise, holy and courageous women whose God-given gifts will enrich the life of the Church in our own time!"

Bridget Mary's Reflection:
A Prayer to St. Hildegard Inspired by Pope Benedict

St. Hildegard, courageous prophet, who condemned hierarchical corruption, and who triumphed over harsh punishments including interdict, walk with us as we practice prophetic obedience to the Spirit by following Jesus' example of Gospel equality and reclaiming our early church heritage of women in Holy Orders.

St. Hildegard, advocate of justice and equality, walk with us as we work with the people of God to renew priestly ministry in a more accountable, just church where-- all are treated as beloved sisters and brothers, and where all are welcome to celebrate sacraments in inclusive communities.

St. Hildegard, truth-teller and reformer, may we, like you, speak truth to power to the hierarchy and to Pope Benedict about the abuse of spiritual power, clericalism, gender apartheid, patriarchy, and all the isms that corrupt our modern day church.

St. Hildegard, woman of mystical prayer, whose prayer embraced feminine imagery of God, may we, like you, affirm the feminine face of God as we use our spiritual gifts to reform the Church of our time.

Bridget Mary Meehan, RCWP
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