Press Release from International Movement RCWP; Dr. Ida Raming/Stuggart, Germany

Press-Release

The decision of Pope Benedict XVI to resign (announced on Feb. 11, 2013) deserves our full respect. His action could pave the way for a reform of the papacy.

 The papacies of John Paul II and Benedict XVI have left behind a large backlog of long awaited and urgently needed reforms.

Fundamental changes in the whole structure of  the Roman Catholic Church must be implemented: The hierarchical-authoritarian system of an all-male group of high ranking clerics who dominate the faithful in all matters of the Church deeply contradicts the spirit of Jesus’ teaching.

The most urgent reforms are:

-         The long lasting discrimination against women, who represent half the members of the Church has to be overcome. Women must have access to all ministries of the Church, starting with the diaconate and the priesthood,

-         The position and the responsibilities of the laity (women and men) are to be strengthened,

-         The structures of the Church must be decentralized: bishops need to be free in their own rights and within their own responsibilities, to  implement necessary reforms,

-         Ecumenical relations with other Christian churches should be improved and  intensified,

-         Lay pastoral workers should be installed as leaders of  parishes to help alleviate the shortage of priests.

 

These reforms are vital. If they are not implemented, the number of faithful leaving the church will continue to increase. The faithful are looking for a church that lives the spirit of Jesus and where human rights are fully respected!

 

Meanwhile, the international movement „Roman Catholic WomenPriests“ (RCWP) is growing and spreading to several countries. A rising number of women priests are ministering to communities, trusting in God’s call and God’s guidance and working for a renewed Church, which bases itself on the message of Jesus Christ.

 

On behalf of the German Section of the International Movement RCWP:  

  Ida Raming, Th.D.  (Stuttgart, Germany, Febr 13, 2013)