Columnist suggests return to all-male altar servers

August 25, 2011

British Catholic columnist William Oddie argues that the decision to allow female altar servers was an error, and should be reversed.

The 1994 decision to allow girls to become altar servers was a "puzzler," Oddie says, in light of the fact that Pope John Paul II had earlier indicated that he would oppose such a move. The practical effect, the British commentator argues, has been to discourage boys from serving--and perhaps from considering a priestly vocation.

 

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Further information:

• The 1994 statement permitting girl servers was a mistaken tactical retreat which led to a fall in priestly vocations (Catholic Herald)