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Witnesses
Fr. Martin Ngo, SJ
University Teacher and Content Specialist, Los Angeles, CA
September 5, 2024

I won’t forget when a priest of the Episcopalian order welcomed a lost little Jesuit novice – me – into her Church in DC circa 2010. Ever since, my soul ached: why not us? Fast forward 10 years. I won’t forget when my academic mentor at BC offered an image to our class of Church as a living, breathing entity that is currently not using both lungs in its current model of hierarchical leadership. Ever since, I thought: why not now? 

Seeing women deacons would serve as a vast, yet strikingly modest, step in the right direction to help loosen the unnecessary (can we say unjust?) thorn in the Church’s side. It would open doors allowing the full range of gifts (of women) to heal, accompany, and refresh others. It would bring about the kind of renewing of spirit that we often pray for in our Church. 

Like my recent endoscopic sinus surgery, a fair amount of bloodshed immediately following the procedure was expected; but to think, I went decades not knowing that breathing properly was supposed to feel this way. 

May the Church be granted tongues of fire (over and again) to shed paralyzing fear like those early apostles in the upper room, allowing the Good Spirit to spring forth that our one Body may practice prophetic love and reconciliation, bridging impossible divisions, and becoming a home that truly empowers all.

Witness
“And when I get antsy waiting, as I often do, I remember the women I met who showed me that the ‘not yet’ is an “already.” Women deacons have existed and continue to exist. Someday, I may be one of them.“
Julia D’Agostino, MDiv
Theology Student, ThM Candidate
Witness
“I have not given a thought about becoming a deacon, but would consider the possibility if asked to become a deacon. Ultimately, I know and feel strongly that the presence of women ministerially can have a profound impact on the Church.”
Kathy Herrington
Lector and Community Minister, Northbrook, IL
Witness
“God has a marvelous plan in all things and whether or not I am called to the diaconate, my service to God and God’s people will always continue. Discerning is a process that always comes with change.”
Helena Ditko
Parish Council Member & Catechist, San Fernando Region, CA,

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This is the hub where we share relevant news, events and opportunities to participate in the work. 
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