La femme et le sacerdoce

Book Description

In this thoughtful theological exploration, Jean Borella examines one of Christianity's most enduring questions: the relationship between gender and sacred ministry. Rather than approaching the topic through contemporary debates about women's ordination, Borella takes a distinctive philosophical path, investigating the deeper spiritual dimensions of priesthood itself.

The author observes that female priests appear throughout many world religions, yet remain absent from Judaism and both Catholic and Orthodox Christianity. Instead of dismissing this as mere tradition, Borella probes whether there exists a fundamental incompatibility between feminine essence and the specific nature of Christian priesthood. His inquiry unfolds with careful nuance, acknowledging that even if the priesthood may not align with feminine spiritual nature, this does not automatically qualify masculine nature as inherently suited for sacred office.

Writing at a time when scientific understanding of gender itself faces scrutiny, Borella grounds his analysis in metaphysical principles rather than cultural arguments. His approach invites readers to consider priesthood not merely as institutional role, but as a particular form of spiritual embodiment with its own ontological requirements.

This concise work offers readers interested in the intersection of spirituality and gender a contemplative framework for understanding sacred ministry. Borella's measured examination provides fresh perspective on questions that continue to shape religious communities, encouraging deeper reflection on the nature of both priesthood and spiritual calling.