In a message to the International Workshop on ‘Women and Work’ sponsored by the Pontifical Council for the Laity in Rome, Francis calls for "concrete suggestions and positive role models to harmonise work commitments and family needs".

Vatican City (AsiaNews) – In a message signed by the Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, on the occasion of the two-day International Workshop on Women and Work sponsored by the Pontifical Council for the Laity in Rome, Pope Francis stressed “women’s indispensable role in the family and children education, as well as women workers’ essential contribution to building economic and political structures ever more worthy of humanity”.

In the note, the pope calls for "concrete suggestions and positive role models to harmonise work commitments and family needs" in the context of today's dichotomy between family life and work organisation.

Today, the dicastery’s statement said, "it is necessary to affirm a dual recognition of the role that women play in public life, to build structures ever more worthy of humanity, and in family life, for the welfare of the family and the education of children.”

"The aim of the symposium will also be to analyse and consider ways out of the impasse so many women find themselves today, and propose innovative solutions that successfully reconcile work and family commitments. Proposals for the more effective promotion of women's work will be considered, to overcome the discrimination women workers still experience, like the penalisation of maternity, and income inequality. An assessment will be made on how to highlight the irreplaceable service that only women’s talents can make to the human race, for the growth of each individual and the construction of society."

With this workshop, which includes speakers from nine countries, "the Pontifical Council for the Laity wishes to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the publication of Pope John Paul II’s Letter to Women, in which the Holy Pontiff expressed feelings of deep gratitude and appreciation on behalf of the Church towards women involved in professional activities. In fact, he spoke to them explicitly saying, “Thank you, women who work!” for your “indispensable contribution [. . .] to the establishment of economic and political structures ever more worthy of humanity.”

The workshop will also address the issue of gender theory and its paradoxes.

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