“[W]e celebrated St. Phoebe Day with a mass to uplift the voices of women in the Church, invite the community to rethink women’s participation and raise awareness of the global synod…Many were deeply moved by our celebration together. A senior woman from the parish shared that she had waited most of her adult life to hear the hope that was offered during Mass. A man approached after the celebration to ask for a copy of the reflection shared. With tears in his eyes, he shared that he hoped to share it with his daughter who had left the Church.”

“Our community’s celebration of St. Phoebe Day reminded us to look around at countless women who respond generously with their time, talent, and treasure instead of exclusively looking at the “usual suspects” of more high profile church leaders.”

“Some parishioners expressed their deep hope that, although the uplifting of women in the Church has often been absent in their own lives, that this can be different for coming generations. As a community, we are committed to continuing this conversation, praying for the ongoing Synod and continuing to uplift the voices of women ministering in the Church in both seen and unseen ways!”

“Before our celebration, 10 women from the parish joined together to pray and prepare for our St. Phoebe day celebration. This was such a profound experience. A few of the women shared reflections at the Masses, and we met together to workshop and practice these reflections. This was deeply rewarding and humbling to be in this community of women supporting and praying for one another.”