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Dear friends in Christ,
Since the beginning of the year, the 50th anniversary of the ordination of women has been marked by celebrations organized around showings of the documentary film, "The Philadelphia Eleven," which as you surely know chronicles the story of the brave women who were "irregularly" ordained to the priesthood in 1974, two years before it was approved by General Convention. We were honored to host one of 11 theater screenings around the country on May 14, followed by a panel discussion (you can watch a video of the discussion here), and individual churches continue to host their own events to screen this important film.
Monday, July 29—the feast of St. Mary and St. Martha—was the actual date on which three retired Episcopal bishops ordained 11 women priests at the Church of the Advocate in Philadelphia. In light of this historic anniversary, and because of Resolution C023 passed at General Convention, you may use these Propers for either 28 July or 4 August, or any other Sunday you choose.
I: O God of Persistent Grace, who didst call the Philadelphia Eleven to the priesthood and didst grant them courage and boldness to respond, thereby opening the eyes of thy church to the giftedness and equality of all: grant us so to hear, trust, and follow thy Holy Spirit wheresoever she may lead, that the gifts of all thy people may flourish throughout the earth, through Christ our Savior. Amen.
II: O God of Persistent Grace, you called the Philadelphia Eleven to the priesthood and granted them courage and boldness to respond, thereby opening the eyes of your church to the giftedness and equality of all: grant us so to hear, trust, and follow your Holy Spirit wherever she may lead, that the gifts of all your people may flourish throughout the earth, through Christ our Savior. Amen.
Preface of Baptism
Exodus 1:15-21
Sirach 1:4-15 (in place of the Psalm)
Galatians 3:23-29
Luke 24:1-11
If you haven't seen the film, or would like to watch it again, the filmmakers will make it available for viewing online July 26-29 for $11, which will support efforts to expand distribution.
Nota bene: Tomorrow you will hear from me in response to the Presiding Bishop's letter to President Joe Biden condemning the violence in the Middle East and strongly urging a ceasefire.
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