At our parish, Immaculate Conception in Durham, NC, we celebrated St. Phoebe’s feast day with special Masses that centered the role of women and uplifted the witness of St. Phoebe on September 3, 2023. During each of the seven masses, a woman from the parish shared a reflection after the gospel, as well as the celebrants at each Mass introducing St. Phoebe Day and connecting our celebration to the global Synod. In our gathering space, we had images on displays with contemporary Catholic women from all cultures and St. Phoebe prayer cards available.

Our parish’s three Franciscan friars were all incredibly supportive of this celebration and of our ongoing discernment. Parishioners also had the opportunity to name influential women in their own lives that would be shared on a bulletin board for all to see. These were also included in the parish newsletter so that all could participate and contribute.

We were glad to uplift the witness and ministry of St. Phoebe. For many in our parish, this was their first chance to become aware of her ministry! We were honored to celebrate St. Phoebe, and we will continue learning and discerning together.