Hi ATF,

I would support that approach towards seeking transitional deaconate for women which graduates to ordained priesthood, after a year, but not permanent deaconate.  We really need to get rid of the perm. deaconate.  It has always supported clericalism, sexism, racism, wealth disparity between nations, & even ethnic disparity.  The permanent deaconate, has consisted of 90% white, middle class or wealthier, western, married men, on a global scale, for the last 40 years. Most countries outside of the US, Europe & Canada have had lay men & women doing these functions, including baptisms. 

ATF - why continue such a ministry at all?  

Keeping a bad ministry or tradition in place just to give the false appearance of supporting women's equality while keeping women from actual equality is immoral.  The permanent deaconate needs to go and its ministries given to trained laity for the betterment of the church.  We need to ordain women priests & demand women cardinals now.