Sally Moran

Women of the Covenant: the Case for Female Roman Catholic Priests Sally Moran

In referring to women's exclusion from ordination, Rome maintains "It is founded on the Word of God, constantly preserved in the Tradition of the Church, has always been set forth by the ordinary and universal Magisterium" Such statements are simply untrue. Women of the Covenant analyzes Scripture, Tradition and Magisterium and refutes the claims used to exclude women from ordination. From the Matriarch, Sarah, to the deacon, Phoebe, and the apostle, Junia, Scripture is replete with examples of women who saved the Covenant and enabled the Messiah. Tradition reveals historical evidence that women were ordained: to the diaconate, the presbyterate, the episcopate. Women preached, heard confessions, participated in Synods, led congregations and administered episcopal sees for centuries, until their rights were abrogated by Papal interdict. Magisterium's teachings have changed throughout the centuries as one pope or council negated the pronouncements of another. Jesus, through his birth, miracles, teachings and death, utilized a gender specific symbol to demonstrate to incredulous and obstinate males that women are commissioned to full sacerdotal ministry. Jesus, by his birth, emerged into humanity covered with amniotic fluid: water and blood. This feminine symbol persisted throughout Jesus' ministry, passion and death. Thus, Jesus lifted femaleness above ritual uncleaness to sacramental reverence. Women of the Covenant covers four millennia of history, lore, religious belief and customs on all continents, and logically refutes the hierarchical claims for a male-only priesthood thereby validating woman's role in ordained ministry.