The Worth and the Witness of Women Bloggers

I meant to write about this earlier this week, but I got distracted by something stupid and ultimately not worth my time.

This, however, is worth your time, and not at all stupid: a terrific piece from Lisa Hendey, who looks at female Catholic bloggers and how their motivations and sense of mission can evolve as they move forward:

In an age when many discount the role of women in the Church, I hold an opposite perspective, one edified by personal relationships. Indeed, Pope Francis recently addressed the International Theological Commission on “The Role of Women in Theology” stating, “Female theologians are able to take up certain unexplored aspects of the unfathomable mystery of Christ.” His observations mirror my own experience online, where I have a front row perspective to witness women of varying ages and vocations who have devoted their lives to the New Evangelization. While few of them would perhaps call themselves theologians they have engaged me in a more profound consideration of gospel truths.

To better understand what lies at the heart of women’s successful foray into the New Evangelization, it helps to consider the motivation for those who find themselves ministering online. Jennifer Fulwiler, a convert from atheism, now understands her platform as a means of connecting Catholic women. Fulwiler, a radio host and bestselling author, has for several years documented her own journey to faith online. Her blog has become a virtual home for those perplexed by the most challenging spiritual questions. “I see an epidemic of loneliness,” notes Fulwiler, “and I hope to use the gifts God has given me to remedy that.”

Lisa’s piece reads so freely that one might not appreciate how difficult it is to cull responses from a number of very different women and turn it into a cohesive whole. She presents us with some real gems. I really like this from Kelly Wahlquist:

“Women are naturally inclined to build relationships, and relationships are both the means and the ends to all the work of the Church. Relationships with those around us helps us share our faith, a deep relationship with Jesus Christ enables us to live our faith fully, and to be back in the familial relationship of the Blessed Trinity is our ultimate goal. Life is relational and women are by their very nature radically relational.”

Lots of female wisdom gleaned from some splendid Catholic women, including our friend Pat Gohn:

“As a catechist and as a woman of faith, I hope to echo the Church’s voice… the voice of a loving Mother who loves her children and wants to see them close to the heart of Jesus, and obedient to his calling to carry out their mission as sons and daughters of God.”

I’m in the piece, too, although (and this will surprise no one, I’m sure) having been asked to discuss women, I made Lisa’s life a bit more difficult by going on and on about men.

I love reading about these visionary Catholic women, and I hope it encourages more women — and plenty of men, too — to think about all Christ and his church have been to them, and become encouraged to identify and offer their own gifts, in service to both.

Check it out.