As Australian Catholics Exploring the Diaconate, we hosted a retreat for women and men at the Mary MacKillop Centre in North Sydney, Australia to explore the diaconate and to uplift the witness and ministry of St. Phoebe. Participants included women and men who feel called to the diaconate, along with current deacons, their wives, clergy and religious Sisters. Together, we shared our stories, learned about the spirituality of diaconate and living the diaconate in our communities. We prayed together, celebrated mass and concluded our time with a webinar that specifically highlighted the example and witness of St. Phoebe.

It was deeply inspiring to bear witness to the stories of each person’s journey of faith and ministry. Together, we ensured that everyone’s voice and experience had space to be heard and valued. This event was part of our journey to support diaconal ministry in Australia. It was so wonderful to bear witness to the stories of others, and to learn together of the history and tradition of women in the diaconate during the early Church. St. Phoebe is an example and inspiration to us on our journey together.