The questioning by Lotte Rabitsch (The Tablet, Letters, 13 December) of the validity of my ordination is understandable, but the picture she presents of my ministry as a woman Catholic bishop in Austria is inaccurate.
I do not know your correspondent but she does not appear to know much about the church in Austria. As it happens I enjoy good relationships with the clergy. Whereas it is true that We Are Church Austria was fearful of supporting me when I was ordained in 2002, since then there has been a radical re-think and they have apologised to me. They have recognised that the illicit ordinations of women on the Danube was and remains a success.
In truth I am well-known and valued in church and civil society in Austria, am interviewed every few months and never subject to unkind criticism. Since putting Peter Stanford's interview with me for the Daily Telegraph on to our website, I have not had one negative comment, despite these being invited from anyone. Even the Vatican has access to it.
I regularly celebrate the Eucharist and other sacraments with people and lots of priests actively support me, although I do not reveal names. Much of my ministry is not publicised in order that the faithful who celebrate with me are not subject to attacks by people like your correspondent.
Those who experience my ministry are the ones who validate it and I am grateful to have the opportunity to serve the Catholic Church as one of its women bishops, whatever the price in rejection and condemnation from some.
+Christine Mayr-Lumetzberger
Loading ...
