Women and Mission; An African Perspective in Theology and Canon Law.

Facilitator: Sr. Dr. Mary Joan Iwenofu, IHM. She serves as the Head of the Department of Mission Studies at Tangaza University.

The session begun by the presentation of the presenter by the Secretary CoE Programme Rev. Dr. Erick Gichomo at 3:15 pm followed by the Presenter’s brief additional introduction and appreciation of the invite. The Interdisciplinary was attended by all the Doctoral and Post-Doctoral beneficiaries and invited guests totaling to 14 participants.

Sr. Mary Joan asserted that the Church Mission is a shared responsibility by both Men and Women. She reiterated Pope Francis’ position that the Church should embody feminine inclusion. The presenter developed the theme from Biblical, magisterial and pastoral viewpoints.

Quoting Papal Documents; the presenter noted that;

  • Pope Francis’ Christus Vivit (2019), addresses young people highlighting the importance of women in the Church particularly in guiding and shaping the lives of young.
  • Pope John Paul II’s Apostolic Letter Mulieris Dignitatem represents the contribution of Women theologians in the Church.
  • Pope Francis and Inclusion of Women: Addressing the International Union of Superiors General (IUSG) on May 12, 2016 said that; Women’s insights are essential and need to be incorporated in church life. i.e. Appointments, Institution of women as Acolytes and Lectors, etc.

With the above insights, the presenter recommended the following after presenting the Role of Women in the Africa Church and some challenges they encounter.

  1. Formal Recognition and Inclusion in Leadership Roles
  2. Promoting Gender Justice and Equality
  3. Expanding Women’s Pastoral Ministries and Vocations
  4. Encouraging Participation at the Grassroots Level
  5. Theological and Ecclesiological Reflection on Women’s Roles in the Church.
  6. Women as Peacemakers and Agents of Reconciliation
  7. Addressing the Role of Women Religious.

Following the presentation, there was an open session of interactions with questions and further discussions. The session ended at 5:15 PM and was appreciated by all the participants.