On September 17, 2010, while entering the Westminster Abbey for an ecumenical act surrounded by Anglican ministers, Benedict XVI greeted Jane Hedges, above, a clergywoman of that Anglican temple. Hedges is not only a woman priest - a situation incompatible with Catholic doctrine - but also an avid campaigner for women to become Anglican bishops.

This is the first time in History that a Pope has greeted and shook hands with a woman priest. It is difficult not to take this act as a manifestation of tolerance for the institution of woman priests in Protestant sects. Further, no one can claim this was a surprise meeting that happened by chance, and that the Pope was unaware he would be greeting an Anglican clergywoman. The encounter with Jane Hedges was announced for at least 10 days before the event and was included in the program of the ceremonial for his reception at Westminster Abbey.

Witnessing such a symbolic gesture, we wonder how long the present day Vatican censure of women's ordination will last. It seems that an important step was taken in the direction of abolishing that prohibition.

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