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Witnesses
Rosa Bonilla
Pastoral Assistant, Dolores Mission Church, Los Angeles, CA
August 7, 2024

I was born in El Salvador, the 6th of 9 siblings, and have been married for more than 29 years. We have three children, all college graduates, two of them married and forming their own families. We are Catholic, and I have been serving God and our Church since my adolescence. Currently we live in Los Angeles, CA, where I have worked at Dolores Mission Parish as a pastoral assistant since 2012 and as a volunteer since 2005. 

Since I first heard through DD about the female diaconate in the early years of our Church, my hope has been that one day the strong work of so many women would be recognized and appreciated by our Church.

Part of my joy comes from the fact that in my work in the parish I have the privilege of doing diaconal work serving my community, the poorest of the poor, the marginalized, the immigrants, and those who are sick at home or in the hospital. I am honored to accompany them, praying and offering spiritual support as well as basic resources for those in need. I also support families that have lost their loved ones, walking with them in their pain and in the funeral process.

Supporting DD on this journey is also an opportunity to support young women in their ministries and all women who have the profound desire to bring and show Christ to others in every possible way.  

This included supporting our celebration of St. Phoebe Day last year in my community at Dolores Mission Parish. 

Witness
“A highlight for many present was the Scripture reflection offered by a female parishioner who specifically spoke about her experience as a minister in the Church. At St. William, communal leadership and ministry are a central part of our community’s identity and values.”
St. William Catholic Community
Louisville, KY
Witness
“I have always viewed my ministry through this lens – out of service for and to the people of God. My intention was and is never to center myself in my ministry as a lay leader, rather my focus was always on how I could better uplift others in our midst. The Holy Spirit has certainly been active in the communities where I have ministered.”
Sr. Janet M. Peterworth, OSU
Community Leader, Pastoral Caregiver, Writer, Louisville, KY
Witness
“The mission of Discerning Deacons is important because they are advocating for a larger role for women in the Church, which is hard to do. Discerning Deacons is unafraid to get their hands dirty to bring about a more inclusive Church for women.”
Devon James
College Campus Minister, Cincinnati, OH

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