VOICED : With too few priests Portuguese women step up

In Portugal, a shortage of priests has led Father Manuel to innovate by training laypeople to perform certain church rites. This training, approved by the Catholic Church, allows laypeople to read biblical texts, give communion, and officiate at funerals, though they cannot give mass or take confession. In Campino, Dora, a young mother, has been leading Sunday services for six years, reflecting changing church customs. The necessity has driven a leading role for women in the church, with Pope Francis studying the role of women deacons, potentially opening doors for women in the clergy.

What challenge is Father Manuel facing in the central Alentejo region?

• An excess of churchgoers

• A shortage of priests

• A lack of church buildings

• A decline in religious interest

What are laypeople trained to do in the church?

• Give math and take confession

• Organize church events

• Read biblical texts and give communion

• Lead church construction projects

How has the role of women in church services changed in Campino?

• Women are no longer involved in church activities

• Women can now become priests

• Women are allowed to give Sunday services

• Women now lead all church services

What cultural changes have occurred in church attire and customs?

• Women still wear veils to church

• Men are required to wear suits

• Short skirts are now acceptable

• Traditional attire is mandatory

What potential future role for women in the clergy is being studied?

• Women taking confessions

• Women deacons

• Women leading all church services

• Women becoming bishops