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Witnesses
Julia D’Agostino, MDiv
Theology Student, ThM Candidate
February 4, 2025

Throughout my life, I have connected with many folks who care deeply about the mission of the Church. I have met people who remind me of my “why” – why I am Catholic and why I stay. When days are hard, and days can be hard, my community supports me. I am called to do the same. I am called to see those who the Church pushes to the margins. I hope the Catholic Church ordains women to the diaconate because I know women, myself included, who are discerning a vocation to the diaconate and who can see ourselves in this very important ministry.

I was a part of the Discerning Deacons pilgrimage to Rome during the Synod gathering of 2024. It was a great blessing to meet so many women who are already doing diaconal work. The Discerning Deacons community yearned for and prayed for a resounding “Yes!” to come out of the Synod…instead, we got a “not yet.” Without the pilgrimage community, I probably would have heard that “not yet” as a “no.” But because of this community, I was reminded of the Spirit at work. A “not yet” is not a “no.”

But it’s still a hard pill to swallow. 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.

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,
Witness
“In my 47-years of ministry, I was the only person some women told of their abortion, a person others asked for guidance about issues of fertility, marriage, children, family life, in-laws, etc. This trust being honored and uplifted by the Church through the inclusion of women in the diaconate would be profoundly significant. I would be proud to be a deacon to embrace both my own calling and to be a part of greater change.”
Dr. Denise Mack
Rochester, NY, Ignatian Spiritual Exercises Prayer Guide and Lay Preaching Organizer

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