In the recently-aired TV interview, Pope Francis said that he is personally not open to women ordained deacons. However the topic has been raised in submissions from across the world and clearly named in the 2023 Synod Synthesis Report as a matter for further consideration and reflection.
Now Pope Francis has set up a study group to provide “theological and pastoral research on the access of women to the diaconate “. At this October’s Synod delegates will receive a report on the study group’s progress. The Synod will also further explore “ministerial and pastoral modalities that better express the charisms and gifts the Spirit pours out on women in response to the pastoral needs of our time.”
In this context, two upcoming Australian events on 3 September will be recognising the Feast of St Phoebe and exploring the topic of women and the diaconate with prayer, reflection and discussion.
The Spirituality Hub in Kirup is hosting a day of learning about St Phoebe and the history and current ministry of the Deacon. The presentation will be in person at Kirup and at St Catherine’s House of Hospitality Tuart Hill, and also available on Zoom, from 10am – 2pm Thursday 3 September. Presenters will include Parish Life Coordinator and Catechist Elizabeth Young RSM from Wilcannia, New South Wales, who will give an online presentation. Elizabeth is authorised to offer pastoral and spiritual care and conduct liturgies in the absence of a priest, including Sunday celebrations, baptisms and funerals. Another presenter will be Cathy Jones, an oblate of the Good Samaritans and Pastoral Leader of the Inland Parish in the Diocese of Geraldton encompassing the towns of Mt Magnet, Cue and Meekatharra. To register to attend in person or online, contact: Deborah Robertson mobile 0419939864 / deborahmrobertson@bigpond.com
Australian Catholics Exploring the Diaconate (ACED) is also preparing to host its third annual webinar on the Feast of St Phoebe, supported by Catholic Religious Australia. From 5:30-7pm AWST (7:30-9pm AEST), Geraldine Doogue AO will MC the event with the theme: Where are St Phoebe’s successors today?
The webinar will begin with two presentations on ‘Synodality and Access for Women to the Diaconate’ from Dr Sandie Cornish and Fr Frank Brennan SJ AO. Dr Cornish has recently been named as a member of the international Synod Study Group 2: Listening to the cry of the poor. This will be followed by short testimonies on ‘How did/would ordination change your ministry?’ from an ordained Deacon and women in deacon-like ministries.
The ACED group aims to promote this discussion and discernment alongside Deacons in Australia, who share their gifts with the Church in the tradition of biblical figures such as St Phoebe and St Stephen. ACED will encourage participants to be better informed and to join the conversation as they encourage diaconal ministry for today’s Church and world.
To register, click on the link: https://liturgyonthemargins.org/events/
(St Phoebe Webinar, Australian Catholics Exploring the Diaconate)
Deborah Robertson, Spirituality Hub Kirup
Elizabeth Young RSM, Australian Catholics Exploring the Diaconate
Where are St Phoebe’s successors today?
Join Geraldine Doogue AO, Fr Frank Brennan SJ, Dr Sandie Cornish and members of Australian Catholics Exploring the Diaconate to reflect on synodality and access for women to the diaconate, and hear personal stories about Australian diaconal ministry
Tuesday 3rd September 2024
7.30pm AEST/ 7:00pm ACST / 5:30pm AWST
Past St Phoebe Webinars can be viewed here
Liturgy on the Margins 