How do Roman Catholics view the roles of men and women in the Church?

Roman Catholics believe that only men can be ordained as priests, a position rooted in the tradition that Jesus chose male apostles and in the view that the priest acts in the person of Christ during the sacraments. This belief underscores a theological understanding of the priesthood that emphasizes the male representation of Jesus, which is a central tenet in Catholic teaching regarding the sacramental economy. The role of the priest is seen as distinct and integral to the Church's sacramental life, leading to the conclusion that women cannot fulfill this specific role.

This perspective is reinforced by the Church's teachings and the writings of various popes throughout history, which explicitly affirm the male-only priesthood. This stance does not imply that women are deemed inferior or that their contributions are less valued; rather, it reflects a defined theological framework within Roman Catholicism that differentiates the roles of men and women in the Church, particularly concerning the sacrament of Holy Orders.

In contrast, the other perspectives suggested in the question misrepresent the beliefs held by the Roman Catholic Church. For instance, the idea that both men and women can be priests contradicts the established teaching on the priesthood. The notion of women being superior to men does not align with Catholic doctrine, which promotes equality