Pink Smoke Rises in Rome 2025

Pope Leo XIV, meet WOC

Like many, we were surprised by the convention-defying choice of an American, but were comforted by his first message to the world: a call for peace.

He also put a clear emphasis on bridge-building and synodality — hallmarks of the Francis papacy that we hope signal an openness to further dialogue and reform. His closeness and affection for the communities he served in Peru could also reflect an understanding of the vital role women play in the life of the church, especially at the parish level.

We also take heart with his choice to honor Pope Leo XIII, who wrote the encyclical ‘Rerum Novarum’ in 1891, beginning the modern articulation of Catholic Social Teaching. Pope Leo XIII moved the church to read the ‘signs of the times’ and respond with respect for the rights of workers and care for people on the margins.

Some quotes have surfaced from Cardinal Prevost that echo Pope Francis’ opposition to women’s ordination, saying in 2023 that “the apostolic tradition is something that has been spelled out very clearly, especially if you want to talk about the question of women’s ordination to the priesthood.” We know this not to be true, and the question of women in ministry continues to be at the heart of the church’s discernment for today.

We pray for and call on Pope Leo to be open to dialogue with scholars and experts who have shared extensive evidence of women’s leadership in the early church, as well as with women who experience a sincerely discerned call to ordained ministry. WOC will work quickly to make that happen.

As we continue to learn more about our new pope, we will be listening with special attention to the Catholic LGBTQ+ community and survivors of clergy sexual abuse, whose efforts for justice, belonging, and equality are inherently connected with the effort for ordination justice. Together we will continue our uncompromising call and deep prayer for a vibrant church of inclusion and healing.