Belgian Bishops Call for Open Debate on Female Deacons

The bishops in Flanders, Belgium, want to keep the debate open on allowing women to become deacons, according to CathoBel.be on January 29. They published a statement saying that the issue should not be considered closed at the local level, even after the recent Vatican study.

The bishops said that church tradition should not be the deciding factor in the discussion, and that "signs of the times" should be taken seriously.

This was in response to the open letter from a group of women frustrated by the recent Vatican study.

The bishops replied that they "understand the women’s feelings".

Furthermore, they said that women should be more closely involved in decision-making relating to theology, liturgy and pastoral care, and described women’s leadership in the Church as “an undeniable enrichment”.

They added that it is not a good thing that only men carry out liturgical roles during church celebrations. They want women to have greater visibility within Church life, within existing limits.

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