The Vatican’s Women: Female Influence at the Holy See by Paul Hofmann

The Vatican’s Women: Female Influence at the Holy See” is a non-fiction book written by Paul Hofmann, a former Rome bureau chief for The New York Times. The book explores the role of women within the Vatican, a historically male-dominated institution.

Hofmann provides a comprehensive account of the experiences of women who work in the Vatican, including nuns, lay women, and female diplomats. He examines the ways in which women have made contributions to the Holy See, including in areas such as education, social justice, and interfaith dialogue.

The author also explores the challenges faced by women in the Vatican, including systemic sexism and discrimination. He discusses the limited opportunities available for women to advance within the hierarchy of the Catholic Church, and the ways in which traditional gender roles have impacted the lives of women who work in the Vatican.

The book is a nuanced and insightful exploration of the complex relationship between women and the Catholic Church. Hofmann provides a balanced account of the contributions and challenges faced by women within the Vatican, and he highlights the important role that women have played in shaping the Church’s policies and practices. The book is an essential read for anyone interested in the intersection of gender, religion, and power.