Phyllis Zagano, Ph.D., world expert on the question of women deacons, is a senior research associate in residence at Hofstra University, Hempstead, New York. Her most recent book is “The Vatican and Women Deacons”...
What’s barring women from being deacons again?
Restoring the woman's diaconate would be countercultural—and theologically correct, says scholar Phyllis Zagano.
New from our staff
November 2026
HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE CURRENT ISSUE
Reap what we sow
Climate change is affecting how we practice long-standing religious rituals. From resource scarcity to extreme weather events, changing landscapes to shifting seasons, communities must contend with challenges to how they have historically practiced their faith.
BY REBECCA RANDALL
Window of hope
A group of religious sisters forgave the man responsible for a terrible crime against their community, demonstrating what real reconciliation looks like.
BY DON CLEMMER
Unintended side effects
Contraception has been a defining religious issue in America, but the history of the pill is more complex than contemporary narratives suggest.
AN INTERVIEW WITH SAMIRA K. MEHTA
Glorious age
Stories of aging saints remind us that every stage of life holds meaning.
BY ELLYN SANNA
The pursuit of peace
A military spouse says real national strength prioritizes commitment to and collaboration with others.
BY SARAH SOUTHERN
“As liberation theologians have told us, without the perspectives of the poor we cannot fulfill our call to mercy as a Christian community.”
Berit Reisenauer Guidotti
