Patrik Hagman: Then a woman could become a Catholic priest

At a time that is turning right, the pope’s choice should be a progressive exception. Pope Francis himself has appointed 80 percent of the cardinals that within a few weeks are closed into the Sistine Chapel and the election is expected to be a continuation of his line. At least when it comes to the idea of ​​a church that is close to the poor and marginalized. More uncertain is how it becomes with Francis’s cautious openings about same -sex relationships and women’s influence in the church, as these issues are not necessarily combined in the same way outside « West ». Francis has shifted the balance of power in the Cardinal College from Europe and the United States against Asia, Africa and South America.

In Aftonbladet Eric Rosén wonders ironically if it becomes a « girl » this time. Of course it will not be, but when could it happen?

If the next pope turns out to be a driven advocate for the Christian Unity maybe an ecumenical union with some Protestant churches may become reality

The first step is to open for women to become deacons. During the first thousand years of church history it was possible and it is actively discussed in today’s Catholic church. None of the cardinals that are counted as « papabili » (advance favorites) support the proposal, but other cardinals do. A Catholic deacon is a kind of auxiliary priest who does everything that priests do except to hear confession, lead the fair and bless. So that would mean that women took their seats at the altar and in the pulpit. And in the early church, many deacons were elected pope without being a priest!

The next step would be less: to open to female priests and bishops. Then only enough support in the Cardinal College is required. Realistically, we probably talk about 40-50 years.

But there may be a shortcut. If the next pope turns out to be a driven advocate for Christian unity, an ecumenical union with some Protestant churches may become a reality. It will also be delayed, but it is not impossible that Teresia Derlén, the Swedish Church’s now youngest bishop, will be able to take a seat in the Cardinal College. Strange things have happened.

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