Irish bishops are speaking out against proposed changes to the Irish Constitution that would remove the terms ‘woman’ and ‘mother.’

Despite assertions from some that these terms perpetuate sexism, the bishops argue that these roles should be cherished and respected.

Cherishing Motherhood and Womanhood

In response to calls for the removal of ‘woman’ and ‘mother’ from the Irish Constitution, the bishops raise a crucial question: what benefit does it serve to delete these terms? They contend that the current wording does not suggest that a woman’s place is solely in the home but rather acknowledges the invaluable role of mothers in society.

Support for Current Wording

Surveys indicate that a majority of Irish mothers express a preference for staying at home to raise their children if given the choice.

The bishops emphasize that the existing constitutional wording does not limit women’s participation in the workforce but rather acknowledges the unique qualities that mothers bring to the family unit.

Concerns Over Proposed Changes

The bishops express concern over the potential implications of removing references to the home from the Irish Constitution.

They argue that this change could diminish the constitutional preference for care within the home, especially in a society that increasingly relies on institutional care for children, the elderly, and the infirm.

Quoting St. John Paul II

In concluding their statement, the bishops evoke the words of St. John Paul II, emphasizing the importance of parents and family life in building a strong society.

They highlight the family as the true measure of a nation’s greatness and stress the significance of upholding traditional values within the Irish Constitution.

Editor’s Note and Biographical Information

The article concludes with an editor’s note and biographical information about AC Wimmer, the founding Editor-in-Chief of CNA Deutsch, providing context about the author’s background and expertise in the subject matter.