Pope Francis has condemned violence against women and he is hoping that this year will be a peaceful one for women. The pontiff said that violence against women is akin to disrespecting God, and he asked women to participate in making major decisions. He said that for us to have a better world this New Year, women should be treated with great dignity.
While speaking in St. Peter's Basilica Rome, the Pope lamented about women's bodies that have been used for profit-making advertisements and pornography. He also pointed out that women have always been offended, raped, beaten, forced into prostitution or forced to procure abortions and the Catholic Church does not condone abortion.
According to AP News, Pope Francis did not mention the catholic perception of women leadership in the church especially the priesthood. According to the catholic tradition and teachings, women are not allowed to be priests and the pontiff position is a reserved seat for males only. The pope said that to have a peaceful and a more united world, women should be involved in making major decisions. He adds that protecting the dignity of women will give us a better world that is peaceful and not a courtyard of war.
He emphasized on allowing women to participate in making decisions because he believes that women are givers and peace mediators. He argues that when women give out their gifts, the world becomes more united and peaceful. Therefore, a win for women is a win for the entire humanity. However, he did not mention the woman's place in the Catholic Church and the reasons they do not have permission to move high up the church ranks. Catholic conservatives do not allow girls to serve in the altar leaving the role for boys only.
There have been scandals in the catholic church of priests who have allegedly impregnated women and young girls and fail to acknowledge their children. Other controversies in the church include priests who have allegedly sodomized young boys.
Pope Francis warned the church against any divisions and he blamed the devil for those people who are going against the Christian teachings and values. He said the devil divides the church by bringing different ideologies. He asked the church to imitate the life of Mary saying that she is a symbol of unity. He closed his sermon by praying for the New Year and urging the Christians to take care of one another.