1. What is Catholic Feminism?

Catholic Feminism is a form of thought and action, with a humanistic and spiritual focus, rooted in respect for human nature and illuminated by faith. It recognizes the original equality in value and dignity between men and women, as well as their mutual support arising from their specific differences. It expresses itself as a comprehensive cultural movement (political, social, economic, academic, etc.) grounded in respect for the fundamental rights of every human being. It prioritizes the protection of women from all forms of discrimination or violence and the building of a just and harmonious society characterized by shared participation and leadership.

Based on this, Catholic Feminism:
 

• Recognizes and values the greatness and specificity of the feminine genius in all spheres of social, economic, and family life.

• Highlights motherhood as a gift (not only biological but fundamentally spiritual) and as a vocation that enriches the life of every woman, rather than limiting her personal or professional development.

• Emphasizes the role of women in public life, politics, and the Church, advocating for equitable and harmonious participation at all levels of decision-making.

• Promotes collaborative leadership between men and women, grounded in their identities and appreciating the distinctive gifts of womanhood.

• Demonstrates a profound commitment to social justice, peace, and mutual care, from a perspective of love and reconciliation.

• Welcomes constructive criticism that seeks Truth and the Good of humanity; it is therefore open to dialogue with various women’s groups and other religious denominations, in pursuit of collaborative work for the common good.

• Actively defends human rights in the face of all forms of injustice.

• Denounces gender-based violence, discrimination, and objectification, proposing constructive alternatives to change the culture that perpetuates these inequalities.

• Seeks to be an instrument of peace, joy, and collaborative work within society for the good of all, fostering the full development of every woman from childhood to old age.
   

2. What are the qualities of the “Catholic” aspect in Feminism?

The adjective Catholic brings a unique vision to feminism, integrating values of faith, spirituality, and universality, among others.

The main characteristics defining this aspect are:
 

• Universality: In harmony with the meaning of Catholic as universal, this feminism is inclusive and directed toward all women, regardless of their social condition, beliefs, or particular circumstances. It also invites men to collaborate actively in building a fair and equitable society where men and women work together for the Common Good, with mutual respect and reciprocity—thus honoring the inherent dignity of every person.

• Fidelity and coherence in faith: Catholic Feminism is rooted in the Social Doctrine of the Church and seeks to live the faith coherently, decisively, and joyfully. This implies integrating Christian values into the struggle for women’s rights, acting in the world with a hopeful and constructive vision of social transformation based on God’s Providence.

• Awareness of the dignity and particular role of women: It emphasizes that every woman is a daughter of God, possessing a unique and irreplaceable value. This feminism views women as whole and valuable persons in all stages of life, rejecting objectification and stereotypes. It recognizes the richness of feminine identity, which includes distinctive physical, psychological, and social aspects, harmonizable with those proper to masculine nature.

• Proposition and solidarity in action: Beyond merely criticizing injustices, this feminism seeks to make constructive proposals grounded in faith and reason, addressing the needs of all women, especially the most vulnerable. It contributes a humanistic perspective in which equality and respect are promoted without compromising feminine identity or the nature of Catholic values.

• Support in Mary as the model of womanhood: The example of the Mother of God’s life on earth guides both female leadership based on service and care, and the recognition of women’s dignity in their relationship with the divine.
   

3. What are the main concerns of women today?

Women in the 21st century face challenges and concerns that, although varying by cultural and geographical context, share similar causes and consequences.

These challenges and concerns can be grouped as follows:
 

• Violence and discrimination: Women suffer various forms of violence—physical, psychological, economic, social, and workplace. The fight against gender-based violence is a cornerstone of Catholic Feminism, which advocates for concrete policies and actions to protect women from every kind of abuse or aggression.

• Motherhood and balance: Achieving harmony between professional work and family care remains a challenge for many women. In countless contexts, motherhood is seen as a barrier to personal and professional growth, generating pressure and anxiety for those who wish to pursue careers without abandoning motherhood, as well as for those who must work outside the home to support themselves and their children.
  The Network of Catholic Women Leaders supports the creation of care systems and public policies that responsibly involve both fathers and mothers in child-rearing, education, and economic support—so that all may benefit fully and conditions for family life, professional work, social participation, and rest may be fostered, for the good of the individual, the family, and society.

• Stereotypes and social pressure: Many women face pressures related to beauty standards and consumerism; therefore, it is necessary to defend the pursuit of a feminine identity that values its own uniqueness, free from imposed norms that undermine self-acceptance, self-esteem, or autonomy.

• Insecurity and holistic health: Public insecurity, forced migration and labor, scarcity of resources for basic needs, discrimination, objectification, and lack of opportunities affect the physical, mental, and emotional health of women. Today’s great challenges include despair in the face of an uncertain future, loss of trust in family and community stability, and grief over loved ones lost to various forms of social violence.

• Voice, leadership, and social participation: Women seek justice and a sense of personal fulfillment that allows them to contribute through their talents and abilities. There is a growing need to value their contributions in both the public and private spheres within a society that respects the dignity and rights of every person.
   

4. How can the concept of Catholic Feminism be projected through the International Network of Catholic Women Leaders?

The International Network of Catholic Women Leaders must be salt, light, and a solid source of inspiration—open to international dialogue without ideological prejudice, dedicated to studying issues affecting women with moderation in tone and firmness in conviction. This Network must bring hope wherever women’s issues are discussed seriously. Men and women together are co-builders of a community in service to the Divine Kingdom.

To translate this concept into concrete action, several strategies are proposed through which the Network can have a positive impact:
 

• Presence in public life and social media: Increase the visibility of Catholic women in public spheres by using social networks and media to spread a message of justice, peace, and dignity. This effort not only seeks to inspire other women but also to influence social and political discourse on the role of women.

• Support and solidarity with vulnerable women: The Network should channel efforts toward supporting women in vulnerable situations, such as those facing poverty, violence, or social exclusion. This includes training programs, psychological support, and advocacy for public policies that protect and improve women’s quality of life.

• Ecumenical and universal dialogue: The Network can promote dialogue with other denominations and women’s movements, building bridges for collaboration in defending women’s rights and dignity. This dialogue should be respectful and focused on shared principles, without losing its Catholic identity.

• Strengthening women’s leadership in faith: Equip women with Christian values and leadership skills, promoting a leadership style based on service and solidarity. Formation in this area should include both spiritual and practical aspects, enabling women to be agents of change in their communities and the Church.

• Promotion of co-responsibility: Include men as allies in the mission to promote women’s dignity. Shared responsibility in caring for the family, society, and the world is essential to this feminism, which sees collaboration and reciprocity as the path toward an equitable and just social transformation.

• Influence in building better societies: Encourage participation in legislation initiatives, affirmative actions, public policies, and forums on women’s issues in various countries; engage in advocacy before legislative, judicial, governmental, and global institutions.
   

5. Conclusion

This Catholic Feminism of the International Network of Catholic Women Leaders is a call to action for all women committed to their faith, to human dignity, and to the defense of all human rights of all women throughout their lives.

It is not a feminism of confrontation, but of collaboration, reciprocity, and construction—where women and men are invited to walk together toward a world that respects differences and values equality in dignity.

The International Network of Catholic Women Leaders seeks to influence culture and social structures, combating all forms of violence and promoting peace, reconciliation, and a vision of love in human relationships.

Thus, Catholic Feminism becomes a transformative force which, grounded in its identity, seeks the common good and justice, responding to the needs and hopes of women in today’s world.
Proposed summary:

DECALOGUE of Catholic Feminism
 

1. Universality: In harmony with the meaning of Catholic as universal, this feminism is inclusive and directed toward all women, regardless of social condition or particular circumstances, while inviting men to collaborate actively in building a fair and just society.

2. Fidelity and coherence in faith: Catholic Feminism is rooted in the Social Doctrine of the Church and seeks to live the faith coherently.

3. Awareness of women’s dignity and particular role: It emphasizes that every woman is a daughter of God, with a unique and irreplaceable value.

4. Constructive proposal and solidarity in action: This feminism seeks to make constructive proposals from faith and reason to address the needs of all women, especially the most vulnerable.

5. Reciprocity and social co-responsibility between men and women: Men and women are equal in dignity before God, both created in His image and likeness. This equality recognizes and values their differences and complementary characteristics for mutual support. Both are called to work together in building a just, harmonious, and productive society.

6. Participation in public life for the good of the person, family, and society: Catholic Feminism defends women’s right to full participation in social, economic, political, and ecclesial life, with a strong and respected voice that promotes peace and justice, rejecting all forms of discrimination or violence.

7. Valuing motherhood and leadership based on shared care: Motherhood—both physical and spiritual—is an essential part of feminine identity. Care and empathy are key elements of a woman’s vocation. However, it is crucial to recognize that these qualities are not exclusive to women. Fostering an ethic of shared care between men and women helps prevent inequality and promotes a relational citizenship based on participation and equality.

8. Respect and support for life: Catholic Feminism promotes effective respect and support for the life of every human being, from conception to natural death. Recognizing the inherent dignity of woman as a daughter of God, it advocates for comprehensive education addressing her feminine nature, physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual health, as well as her rights and responsibilities. It also emphasizes informing women about available resources in situations of vulnerability, empowering them to make free and responsible decisions for themselves and their children.

9. Promotion of feminine spirituality: The development of magnanimity with a transcendent vision, firm faith, certain hope, and selfless love gives women the capacity to make responsible decisions that foster their own full development and that of society.

10. Support in Mary as the model of womanhood: Her example guides both female leadership based on service and care, and the recognition of women’s dignity in their relationship with the divine.
     

Authorship:

This document gathers the reflections of the members of the Council of the International Network of Catholic Women Leaders, in an assembly held on October 25, 2024, via digital meeting. It also draws upon the Social Doctrine of the Church, founded on the message of Jesus Christ, which offers comprehensive guidance for addressing the social and ethical challenges of our time, fostering a social transformation that reflects the values of the Kingdom of God.

Final report: Marcela Chavarría-Olarte, Julieta Lujambio, and Raquel Ivonne Vargas (November 5, 2024)

Supporting References
 

• John Paul II. Apostolic Letter Mulieris Dignitatem: On the Dignity and Vocation of Women. Vatican City: Libreria Editrice Vaticana, 1988.

• Binetti, Paola. New Models of Female Leadership: Between Old and New Feminisms. Rome: Edizioni Studium, 2021.

• Burgraff, Jutta. Influences on Thought Concerning Women. Institute of Family Sciences. Pamplona: University of Navarra, 2020.

• Hernández Sampelayo, María; Chavarría-Olarte, Marcela, and 18 co-authors. 21st Century: The Golden Age of Women. Madrid: Editorial Universitas, 2011.

• Ibarra Soto, Diana; Crespo Arriola, María Fernanda; Ochoa Torres, Susana, et al. Person-Centered Feminism: From Theory to Reality. Mexico City: Editorial Nun, 2023.