Women have nothing to be forgiven for

The Pope’s recent declaration regarding abortion could be seen as hopeful news for women and those that can experience pregnancy, and was acclaimed by some as a radical turn. By allowing priests to “absolve the sin of abortion”, the Pope seems to be willing to open a space for dialogue within religious institutions and to progressively adapt official dogma to the lived experiences of Catholic people. However, his declaration was received with some scepticism in liberal circles, including by Catholics for the Right to Choose. Indeed, one could wonder, what exactly should women be forgiven for?