The Guardian view on women in the Catholic church: let down yet again | Editorial
GuardianSEP 2024
Pope Names First Woman to Lead Vatican Dicastery
Above: Pope Francis presides over a mass for the Epiphany in St. Peter's Basilica at the Vatican on Jan. 6, 2025. Image copyright: Riccardo De Luca/Contributor/Anadolu via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
This appointment marks a historic milestone in Vatican leadership — a revolutionary step forward in Vatican governance. It breaks centuries of male-only leadership in top positions and demonstrates concrete progress in giving women more authority in church decision-making.
Narrative B
While Sister Brambilla's appointment shows progress in administrative roles, it maintains traditional and restrictive theological boundaries. Women remain excluded from priesthood and certain sacramental functions, requiring a male pro-prefect to fulfill these duties. There is still room for improvement in terms of gender inclusion within the Catholic Church power structure.