ASIA/BAHRAIN - The essential and vital role of women for the mission of the Church

Manama (Agenzia Fides) - "Women are not only an integral part of our faith communities, but also essential for the flourishing of the mission of our Church," said Bishop Aldo Berardi (O.SS.T.), Apostolic Vicar of Northern Arabia, on the occasion of the meeting on Discipleship and female participation in a synodal Church in mission. "These two days are intended to be a testimony of our commitment to their full participation," said the Bishop at the opening of the two-day event, which took place on 29 and 30 November in the Cathedral of Our Lady of Arabia in Awali and in the Church of the Sacred Heart in Manama.

The initiative was launched by the "AVONA-Women" organization of the Apostolic Vicariate of Northern Arabia, together with Bishop Berardi, to promote dialogue and initiative to enhance the role of women in the Church. The event was well received and sparked lively discussions on how to further involve women in decision-making and improve their visibility in the Church's teaching and practice.

Also on the list of speakers was Pascale Debbane, Regional Coordinator of the Listening and Dialogue Section - Middle East, who spoke about a broader vision of the synodal Church and the important role that women play in shaping the mission and governance of the Church.

Giving women a voice within the Church and encouraging them to actively participate in the Church's tasks was one of the goals of this meeting, which was also attended by Father Joseph Savarimuthu, who together with Pascale Debbane belongs to the Dicastery for the Promotion of Human Development, and Sister Milagros Sandoval of the Congregation of the Sisters Servants of the Holy Spirit (SSpS) from the Philippines.

"In these times of darkness, division and conflict in all forms of society, the 'AVONA Women's Program' is light and hope for people, especially women. I am grateful to have been able to share with them," said Sister Milagros, speaking of her work in the Philippines from her spiritual and missionary perspective.

The success of this initiative is a significant step towards recognizing the essential and decisive contribution of women in missionary work. (AP) (Agenzia Fides, 6/12/2024)

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