By Jonathan Liedl
South Bend, Ind., Mar 31, 2025 / 07:00 am
Should Catholics embrace the term “feminist”? This question was explored by a panel of prominent female Catholic thinkers at a recent conference at the University of Notre Dame dedicated to the Church’s teachings on women. The panel presented varying viewpoints, with some speakers advocating for the strategic use of the term, while others expressed reservations.
Supporters of using the feminist label argued that it can be a valuable tool for establishing common ground with non-Catholic women who may support practices such as abortion and contraception but are open to advocating for women’s needs. Legal scholar and Church leader Helen Alvaré emphasized the importance of a “new feminism” and the instrumental use of the feminist label in promoting women’s well-being.
Philosopher Melissa Moschella echoed this sentiment, encouraging attendees to adopt the feminist label when advantageous with certain audiences. The conference’s organizer, theologian Abigail Favale, shared her ambivalence towards the term, citing the divergence between mainstream secular feminism and Church teachings as well as her personal journey from evangelicalism to feminism in college.
The Intersection of Faith and Feminism: A New Perspective
When Favale first delved into discussions surrounding faith and feminism, she found herself blending her Christian beliefs with secular feminist ideals. It was a subtle shift, almost unconscious, but one that resonated deeply with her. This phenomenon is not uncommon among Christian students who strongly identify with feminism.
At a recent panel discussion at Notre Dame, panelists debated the idea of Catholics adopting the feminist label, especially in light of the growing “red-pilled” anti-feminist movement within the Catholic community. This movement not only rejects secular feminism but also challenges recent teachings on the dignity of women.
Legal scholar Erika Bachiochi emphasized the need to defend women’s rights and dignity, pointing out that 19th-century feminism was rooted in Christian principles. “We have to stand with young women today and say, ‘I’m with you, not with them,'” she asserted.
While the current trend of “trad wife” influences may be popular among young Catholic women, theologian Angela Franks stressed the importance of establishing a Catholic feminism as a counterbalance to potential disillusionment with anti-feminist ideologies in the future.
Writer and policy analyst Leah Libresco Sargent echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the Church’s focus on advocating for the unique mission of women and promoting justice for women in society. She highlighted the need for women to embrace their femininity in a world that often treats them as “defective men.”
Ultimately, whether or not the term “feminism” is used, the panelists agreed on the importance of women’s empowerment and the evangelical value of women embracing their femininity. As the conversation continues, it is clear that the intersection of faith and feminism offers a new perspective on women’s rights and dignity.
