Equality for Women and Catholic Feminism

Abstract

This chapter examines the origins, themes, and actions of Catholic feminism in the United States. It begins with an overview of Catholic teachings on women and then provides an account of the early voices and organizations that challenged these views and proposed biblical gender equality. The chapter summarizes the ideas of feminist theologies, particularly the work of Mary Daly and Rosemary Radford Ruether. It then explores several distinctive strategies of resistance, including actions for the ordination of women, the Roman Catholic Womenpriest movement, the emergence of Women-Church groups that practice inclusive liturgies and worship, and organizations that promoted diverse Catholic perspectives on contraception and reproductive rights.