Pope Leo XIV acknowledgment of the need for women’s roles to develop further, coupled with his caution on ordination, underscores the complexity of these issues within the Church.
Newsroom (18/09/2025, Gaudium Press ) In an exclusive interview with Crux Now, Pope Leo XIV offered his reflections on the role of women in the Catholic Church. Speaking with candor and a commitment to synodality, the pontiff outlined his vision, emphasizing a careful, listening-oriented approach rooted in theological reflection and pastoral sensitivity.
Women’s Roles in the Church: A Path of Development
The role of women in the Church has been a focal point of discussion within the Synod on Synodality, with particular attention given to the question of women’s ordination, especially to the diaconate. Pope Leo XIV acknowledged the momentum behind expanding women’s participation in Church life, noting a “positive response” to the idea that women’s roles must continue to evolve.
“I hope to continue in the footsteps of Francis, including in appointing women to leadership roles at different levels in the Church’s life,” the pope said, underscoring the importance of recognizing the diverse gifts women bring to the Church. He pointed to the appointments of women to significant positions under Pope Francis as a model for his own pontificate, signaling an openness to further integration of women into decision-making roles.
However, when the conversation turned to the ordination of women, particularly as deacons, Pope Leo XIV adopted a cautious tone. “The topic becomes a hot-button issue when the specific question is asked about ordination,” he noted. He referenced the ongoing work of various commissions established by previous popes to study the possibility of women deacons, indicating that this question remains under careful consideration.
“I at the moment don’t have an intention of changing the teaching of the Church on the topic,” the pope stated, emphasizing that several preliminary questions must be addressed before any decisions can be made. He cited the uneven development of the permanent diaconate itself as a key issue. During the Jubilee for Permanent Deacons earlier this year, Pope Leo XIV met with a group of English-speaking deacons and their wives, an encounter that prompted him to reflect on the state of the diaconate globally.
“There are parts of the world that never really promoted the permanent diaconate, and that itself became a question: Why would we talk about ordaining women to the diaconate if the diaconate itself is not yet properly understood and properly developed and promoted within the Church?” he asked. The pope suggested that the reinstatement of the permanent diaconate following the Second Vatican Council has not fully realized its potential in many regions, raising questions about its role and implementation that must be resolved before expanding it further.
The pontiff also raised a deeper concern about the risk of “clericalism” in addressing women’s roles. “Would we simply be wanting to invite women to become clericalized, and what has that really solved?” he asked during a synod press conference, a point he reiterated in the interview. This critique reflects his broader vision for a Church that moves beyond hierarchical structures toward a more inclusive, synodal model of governance.
Listening and Theological Reflection
Pope Leo XIV emphasized his commitment to a synodal approach, which prioritizes listening to diverse voices within the Church. He noted that the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith continues to examine the theological and historical dimensions of women’s roles, particularly regarding the diaconate. “We’ll walk with that and see what comes,” he said, signaling a willingness to let these discussions unfold organically through study groups and ongoing discernment.
A Measured Path Forward
As Pope Leo XIV steps into his new role, his remarks reflect a delicate balance between openness to change and fidelity to tradition. His acknowledgment of the need for women’s roles to develop further, coupled with his caution on ordination, underscores the complexity of these issues within the Church. By prioritizing theological study and synodal listening, the pope appears intent on fostering a thoughtful, inclusive process that respects the Church’s heritage while responding to contemporary calls for reform.
For now, Pope Leo XIV’s approach signals continuity with the legacy of Pope Francis while leaving room for future developments. As the Church continues to grapple with these hot-button issues, the pontiff’s commitment to discernment and dialogue will likely shape the global Catholic conversation for years to come.
- Raju Hasmukh with files from Crux Now
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