Church in transition: How women are conquering new roles in the diocese!

Church in transition: How women are conquering new roles in the diocese!

In Graz, the dioceses of Graz-Seckau and Gurk-Klagenfurt recently met with representatives of the Catholic Theological Faculty at the University of Graz to discuss the future of the church. The focus of the conversation was the implementation of the results of the last Synod of Bishops, which took place in the Vatican in October. The aim is to make the church more synodal and co-determination-friendly. Bishop Wilhelm Krautwaschl and other experts emphasized the need to promote a culture of open discussion in order to enable real change. This view was reinforced by Professor Ralf Lutz, who explained: “Really listening means allowing yourself to change.” These developments are linked to the challenges raised by the Synod, particularly regarding the role of women in the Church. According to the Diocese of Graz-Seckau, there are different opinions on the ordination of women to the priesthood, while others are already encountering resistance at the diaconate.

Growth and participation

The Diocese of Graz-Seckau, under the leadership of Bishop Krautwaschl, is actively committed to the participation of all baptized people. By 2018, as part of the “Diocesan Way” project, a forward-looking plan was developed that aims to shape the church as a community that actively responds to the needs of today's society. The diocese includes 25 deaneries with 388 parishes and has over 1.2 million inhabitants, a significant proportion of whom are Catholic. This broad membership base should be further strengthened through synodal education and an appreciative culture of discussion. Sarah Knolly and Bruno Almer pointed out that these learning and practice processes should also be applicable in other areas of society in order to interest more people in the church's issues.

How kathpress.at reported that all participants at the meeting agreed that changes are only possible through the active participation of all believers. The interaction between lay people and clergy plays a crucial role in positioning the church as an open and welcoming place for all. In this context, the demand for diversity and equality within church structures is a central concern, as well katholisch.at emphasized. This means that the Catholic Church in Austria is facing a decisive phase of transformation, which the voices of women and lay people should also play a key role in shaping.