"Your efforts, and mine, are to free women everywhere." 

This charge given by Sr. Joan Chittister was just one of countless inspiring moments from our unforgettable evening, "Radicals and the Rule." It began with the great joy of seeing two powerful, prophetic women meet for the first time.

The conversation that followed was lively, smart, fierce, and holy. We had a front-row seat to first-class feminist and queer theology as Sr. Teresa Forcades invited us to a deeper and more complex understanding of God and gender. We were gifted with Sr. Joan's masterful storytelling and truth-telling. And we witnessed sincere and pointed dialogue whether and how the institutional Church actually honors women.

We were left with many words of wisdom to reflect and act upon: 

"The Church can't recognize the dignity of human beings when it doesn't recognize the dignity of women." - Sr. Teresa Forcades, OSB

"Francis has opened the door to questions...you must rush into those rooms." 

- Sr. Joan Chittister, OSB

For all who wished they could come but were unable to, we are excited to announce that the conversation will be available to rent online and we will share it as soon as possible.

Earlier the same day, dozens of supporters of women's ordination gathered in front of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception to honor the courageous words of Sister of Mercy Theresa Kane, who 40 years ago called upon Pope John Paul II to include women in all ministries of the Church. See more photos below and in our photo gallery here. 

It was a joyful gathering, with decades-long supporters (with some classic WOC signage!) and new members present together. 

We are so energized by this weekend of re-envisioning and reclaiming our Church, featuring these strong women of faith. Sharing it with so many of you in person was a gift! 

Thank you for believing in WOC's mission and living it!