I see the work of Discerning Deacons as a response to the need for more laborers in the field, recognizing that women have been involved in ministry from the beginning, often carrying significant responsibilities without acknowledgment. Fully affirming our desire to serve the Lord and our parishes—and finally recognizing and legitimizing that work—would be a beautiful step forward.

This work is essential for challenging the status quo, deeply exploring the Church’s history of the female diaconate, and courageously asking important questions. I also believe that the inclusion of women’s voices and experiences will increase emotional, mental, and physical safety for other women in church spaces. 

My deepest prayer for our church is that we can be a Church that honors the inherent dignity of all people, and embraces and amplifies women’s voices in our ecclesial spaces, especially by honoring the Biblical tradition of having women preach. 

Krista Varney is a Domestic Violence Advocate who lives in Grand Prairie, Texas. She is also a leader with the Dorothea Project, a community of Catholic women formed by Catholic social teaching, called to speak truth and defend human dignity.