Sister Christian Churches

The fact that so many other Churches, after a long and conscientious examination of Sacred Scripture and Tradition, have come to the conclusion that women can be ordained priests and bishops, is of great significance to the Catholic Church.

For the Catholic Church acknowledges that the Holy Spirit is also at work in those Churches and that it has to learn from what the Spirit is saying through the action of those Churches.

“Many of the most significant elements or endowments which together go to build up and give life to the Church herself can exist outside the boundaries of the Catholic Church: the written word of God; the life of grace; faith, hope and charity, along with other interior gifts of the Holy Spirit and visible elements.” (Vatican II, Decree on Ecumenism § 3)

“Nor should we forget that whatever is wrought by the grace of the Holy Spirit in the hearts of our separated brethren can contribute to our own building up. Whatever is truly Christian never conflicts with the genuine interests of the faith; indeed, it can always result in a more ample realization of the very mystery of Christ and the Church.” (Vatican II, Decree on Ecumenism § 4)

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