parroquia Saint Joseph
“Some mothers from our parish shared their fierce hope that maybe their young daughters will have the opportunity to serve as deacons.”
Archivos: Ser testigos
Fr. William Heric
“The time is right, and frankly, long overdue for the pastoral leadership of these women to be acknowledged through their ordination as deacons in the Church. The current ordained ministry of the Church is increasingly impoverished by the absence of women serving in this official capacity.”
Intercommunity Peace and Justice Center
“There was an inherent openness at our celebration that reflected a deep sense of invitation. We are inviting the experiences of all to be shared, and in-turn, inviting the presence of the Holy Spirit in our community.”
St. Francis of Assisi Parish
“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.”
St. Thomas More Catholic Community
“This was definitely a new experience for all who were involved in planning our celebration—there is value, risk and vulnerability in public witness! We are grateful to accompany one another on this journey.”
St. Mary’s Catholic Church
“Our experience together was such a blessing, and we will continue to reach out to others amongst us to uplift the witnesses of women in our community on our journey together.”
Immaculate Conception Church
“Some parishioners had not heard of St. Phoebe and her diaconal ministry, while others were familiar and excited to share their
knowledge of her ministry with others. Overall our community was open to this celebration, and some were extremely
excited to learn more! Some parishioners asked when there would be more celebrations or sessions uplifting St. Phoebe and her ministry.”
St. Therese Parish
“In preparing for our celebration, those involved in planning were able to demonstrate how change within the Church does not need to be cause for division, but rather can bring our community together. The Church has experienced change before; we should not fear! We will continue on this journey alongside one another.”
Church of the Ascension
“It was so life-giving to listen to such an inspiring and powerful witness testimony, as well as to work alongside one another on our team to plan this event. There was so much good energy among the planning team and parishioners!”
St. Ambrose University
“Together, we have hope for the future. We are grateful to have examples of women leaders on our campus who are committed to ministering to our campus community with dedication and strength. We pray that this celebration is just the start of uplifting women on our own campus and throughout the entirety of the Church. St. Phoebe, pray for us!”