Women priests celebrate ministry

Catholic Women priests have been in the news so much this week that we just couldn't help but share some links with you! In Indianapolis, two women were ordained earlier this month, one as a priest and the other as a deacon.  Both women bring years of experience is ministry; Rev. Mary as a social worker and chaplain and Deacon Annie as a teacher and pastoral care minister.  A local news source noted that "The link between the Women Priests movement and feminist movements around the world is strong and undeniable." These women were already leaders in their communities, the stand they've made to embark on this new chapter in their ministry is certainly an inspiration to others.

The movement for women priests is worldwide and this week in Toronto readers also got a chance to learn about two faith filled women in their community. "The rhythm of the Mass is totally familiar, coming from the same missal and liturgical calendar as traditional Catholic churches just along Ronscesvalles. What gives? There are female ministers down at the Presbyterian church, and the Church of England just decided that women can be bishops. But this is a Catholic service. Why is a woman saying mass?" asked the reporter, who went on to describe the thriving inclusive community led by Rev Roberta and Rev Catherine.

In Illinois another woman priest is healing and motivating those around her with her life of faith. Rev. Mary, who leads Holy Family Inclusive Catholic Community, where many CTA members worship, was profiled in a local paper this week. In the interview she says that finding communities that believed in a better church helped her when she was disillusioned, now, as a priest, she can see the community's affect on others. "People come up with tears in their eyes, feeling so good about being able to come back to the church,” Keldermans says. “They’ve been hurt in some way by the institution, and they’re now back. That’s very humbling, to think that I had anything to do with that."

And let's not forget our sisters in the Church of England either; last week there was celebration as the Synod voted to accept women as Bishops!