Re: “Pope Leo XIV urges release of imprisoned journalists, affirms gift of free speech and press” (May 12, World):
Thank you for the many articles covering our new pope, Leo XIV. It would seem he supports a strong and free press, a subject near and dear to The Times.
We will learn in the days to come where Leo stands on many topics. I hope he will be open to expanding the role of women in the Church. As a lifelong Catholic who has been involved in Catholic Church work at all levels, I value the work that women do to keep the Church relevant and alive. Solutions to the world’s problems require leadership and vision from women, or the efforts will only be half as successful as they could be. The first step to ordain women to the diaconate is not as big a leap as some people make it. The early Church ordained women to this service. We need the women now.
I am hoping and praying for a return to a tradition that has been lost for too long.
John Hickman, Seattle
