The movement for ordaining women in the Catholic Church is rapidly gaining ground. As it does, questions are increasingly being asked about how the Church will need to adapt in order to accept women equally. Historically and theologically, the Catholic Church’s understanding of itself has been shaped and is still driven by an all-male hierarchy.

This book sets out a theological framework for a renewed understanding of the priesthood and of leadership within the Church in which women may play a full part. It describes the work already being done by women throughout the Catholic Church worldwide in liturgy, pastoral work, mission, theology, catechestics and engagement with questions of social justice.