Islam's Pioneering Women Priests

February 25, 2007

Author: Richard Hamilton

Source: BBC News

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/6392531.stm

A radical innovation in the Islamic world has arisen in Morocco - women preachers. The Mourchidat, as they are known, are the first women ever in any Muslim country that can perform the functions of a male Imam in a mosque, except lead the prayers.

Fifty Mourchidat have graduated and have now begun their ministries.

However, not everyone agrees with the new appointments.

The Mourchidat will be allowed to lead religious discussions and give advice in their communities - particularly to women.

The only thing they will not be able to do is to lead prayers. That role will still be reserved for male Imams.