'Women are future of the Catholic church': Anne Soupa leads renewed fight for equality

French academic's bid to become archbishop of Lyon reflects growing calls for women in leadership roles

A French female academic has put herself forward to be the next Catholic archbishop of Lyon in a move that is gathering support around the world even though she stands no chance of succeeding.

Anne Soupa, 73, a theologian and biblical scholar, says there is an awakening of women within the Catholic church". Seven other Catholic women in France have followed her move in applying for ministries that are open only to men.