The other day a little girl in the fifth grade put me in…
““The other day a little girl in the fifth grade put me in an awkward spot by stating: 'Is it fair that Jesus created seven sacraments and only six of them are available to women?' She was referring, obviously, to Holy Orders to which -- according to eternal tradition -- only males are admitted. What could I answer? After looking around, I said: "In this classroom I see boys and girls. You boys can ask: 'Is anyone among the males of the world the father of Jesus?' The boys' answer: 'No, because Saint Joseph was only the putative father.' But you girls" -- I went on -- "can ask: 'Was one of us women the mother of Jesus?' And the answer is: 'Yes.'" Then I said: "You are right, but think this over. If no woman can be pope or bishop or priest, this is compensated for a thousand times over by the divine maternity, which honors exceptionally both woman and motherhood." My little protester seemed convinced.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Faith can be explained through relatable analogies, showing women's spiritual value despite institutional limits.
In simple terms: Use simple questions to illustrate deeper truths.
Key Takeaway
Explain complex ideas with everyday examples.
Themes
faith
gender
education
Mood
thoughtful
empathetic
Type
educational
inspirational
When to use this quote
- classroom discussions
- interfaith talks
- gender equality debates
- religious education
Key Concepts
theology
dialogue
inclusion
Questions to Reflect On
- How can analogies respect doctrinal depth?
- What other analogies clarify faith?
A Different Perspective
May oversimplify nuanced doctrines.