Pope Francis met with members of the Pontifical Council for Culture. The previous week, the council discussed the world's different feminine cultures.
Cardinal Gianfranco Ravasi told the Pope that a group of women has worked with bishops and cardinals of the Council to explain the different roles that women play in society.
Pope Francis explained that female involvement is one of their main concerns.
POPE FRANCIS
'We must show that women are not just invited, but are actually part of the various fields of social and ecclesial life. Feminity is central to the church's identity. It's our Mother Church, not our Father Church.â?
He also said that subordination of women to men still occurs and that it has a negative impact in modern society. He suggested another way to consider the relationship between genders.
POPE FRANCIS
'Women are equal to men, but there are differences between men and women. It is better to think of women working with men instead of against them.â?
He also stressed the irreplaceable role of women in the family. He said that women embody 'the tender face of God.' He denounced violence agaisnt women, especially against the poorest.
Finally, he explained that it was an urgent matter for women to gain more influence within the Church.
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