"The reason some questions cannot be suppressed, do not go away--regardless how many people think they should--is because the human heart knows they must be asked or have yet to be clearly answered.  When that question concerns the quality of the discipleship of half the Catholics in the world, it cries out for attention. And will continue to cry out until the church itself attends to it. Why? Because the model of Jesus with women demands it. 

The Women's Ordination Conference honors this question for all our sakes. Thanks to WOC, as church we are able to pursue the question together so that the Church may grow in "wisdom, age--and grace." At Gender, Gospel, and Global Justice support the search. Enable this life-giving conversation to go on."    

- Sr. Joan Chittister and Martin Sheen

WHAT:  Women's Ordination Worldwide (WOW) is holding its third international conference just prior to Pope Francis' visit to the United States. The theme of the gathering is "Gender, Gospel & Global Justice." Advocates for women's ordination and equality in religion from around the globe will gather to explore the essential links between ordaining Catholic women and building a just society.   

WHO:  Hundreds of WOW delegates and members, Catholic reform and feminist groups, theologians and students, and advocates of women's ordination from around the world are expected to attend the historic gathering.

WHEN: September 18-20, 2015

WHERE: Philadelphia Marriott Downtown, 

Speakers: Confirmed speakers include Sr. Teresa Forcades, Tina Beattie, Elisabeth Schüssler Fiorenza, Mary E. Hunt, Sr. Theresa Kane, Shannen Dee Williams, Gary Macy, Ursula King, Patricia Fresen, Roy Bourgeois, Jamie Manson, Tony Flannery, Sr. Christine Schenk, Phyllis Zagano, Kate Kelly, Asra Nomani, Sr. Maureen Fiedler, Barbara Blaine, and many more. View full list of speakers and brief biographies

Press accreditation is required for all press covering WOW conference. To request a press pass, please email [email protected].