Amidst ongoing discussions about female involvement in religious brotherhoods, Jesús Fernández, the Bishop of Córdoba, has clearly stated the Church's position. He affirmed that women should hold the same status as men within these institutions, a principle he believes must be upheld. These remarks follow inquiries from the Ministry of Equality to two Córdoba brotherhoods regarding potential discriminatory practices: one for prohibiting women from serving as 'costaleras' (bearers) in Los Dolores de la capital, and another for restricting women's roles to a 'symbolic' presence in the brotherhood of the Santo Sepulcro de Aguilar de la Frontera.

Prior to the presentation of a study by the Concept Research Institute, Fernández acknowledged the complexity of implementing these principles. He stressed the importance of considering both state regulations and the internal statutes of the brotherhoods, aiming for harmonization between them. He also noted that while gender should not be a limiting factor, some roles might require specific aptitudes that depend on the individual, not their sex.

Another key issue addressed by the bishop was the limitation of extraordinary processions by brotherhoods, a significant finding of the aforementioned study. Fernández reiterated the necessity of regulating these processions to prevent exceptional events from becoming routine. This effort is part of a broader initiative to enhance the Holy Week experience, focusing on areas that can still be improved and strengthening training within the brotherhoods, particularly for senior members.

The bishop also highlighted the importance of fostering harmony between popular piety and liturgical celebration, which he considers the highest expression of faith. The study's presentation took place on Saturday at the assembly hall of the Diputación de Córdoba, during a Diocesan Encounter for chaplains, group presidents, and senior brotherhood members.