[quote:34kh5pvm]That’s exactly what I mean about women’s roles in the Church…yes, church secretaries, CCD teachers, etc. are often women. Yet the Church hierarchy is entirely composed of men. The men have ALL the authority. Women are relegated to doing things the men don’t want or need to do, like baking brownies for “Father”. Sheesh. :rolleyes: [/quote:34kh5pvm]

Oh, well, I guess I see those as very important positions within the Church. I wasn’t talking about just CCD teachers, but rather Religious Education coordinators – the people [b:34kh5pvm]in charge[/b:34kh5pvm]. They are the ones that set the curriculum. I mean, that’s important stuff because it is directing youth in their most formative part of their lives. ” title=”Smile” /> I know plenty of men in those positions as well so I don’t think it is a matter of men not wanting or needing to do it. Each person has their own individual interests and it just happens that more women are interested in certain things than men. Or perhaps there are more women that are just plain better at it. And to be honest with you Religious Education coordinators and Faith Formation Directors often get paid more than the pastor. ” title=”Wink” />

There are many lay positions that are highly authoritative. Just because women aren’t official clergy does not mean their role is diminished or they are less valued. I guess it all depends on how you look at authority within the Church. Personally, I feel the clergy do not have all the authority, but it is also in the hands of the lay people in some of the ways I have already mentioned.

Just my observation. ” title=”Smile” />