Archdiocesan Guidelines Encourage Language to Refer to All Genders

An archdiocese in Germany has issued guidelines for using gender inclusive language in its documents, including the use of a star symbol in gendered vocabulary to indicate nonbinary gender identities. But the guidelines for using the symbol are restricted to only certain situations, and binary gendered language–referring to both men and women–is recommended in most cases. 

The change by the Archdiocese of Freiburg, announced in a church newsletter, was part of a broader move to encourage more gender inclusive language in church texts, though requiring that the male/female binary description be maintained.  

The gender star symbol (*)  used in Germany, places an asterisk in a noun that has a masculine or feminine ending to symbolize the noun includes men, women, and nonbinary people.

The use of the symbol is allowed only in three particular instances. The directive said it “may be used to express gender sensitivity in event announcements and letters to specific individuals for the following pastoral areas: Adult pastoral services with a special focus on gender identity or gender diversity; University pastoral care; Youth ministry.”

The directives were intended to elaborate on a previous document in which the archdiocese made a commitment to work towards gender equality. The new directives further elaborate that commitment in the specific area of language. The text acknowledges that the commitment to gender equality will not be easy for the institution, which had been recognized by statements made in the previous document:

“They describe the effort to achieve equality in gender relations as a central challenge for the Church, since the Christian view of humanity recognizes men and women as equal. Accordingly, the Archdiocese commits itself ‘at all levels to gender-specific action that recognizes differences and does not simply level them, but overcomes them where they are unjust.’

“Language is an important means of expressing our thoughts and reflects our interests and consciousness. Therefore, the goal of equality between women and men must also be expressed through linguistic equality between the sexes.”

Gender neutral language, such as using “fire fighters” instead of “firemen” was also encouraged. 

This shift towards more inclusive and gender-neutral language by the Archdiocese of Freiburg is a step in the right direction. The use of the gender star will be especially effective in the three situations described, making Catholics who identify as nonbinary feel more welcome.  Limiting it only to three pastoral situations, however, makes it a small step.  Let’s hope that its success in these situations will provide evidence for its effectiveness so that it can be implemented in all archdiocesan documents. 

—Elsie Carson-Holt, New Ways Ministry, June 6, 2025