Women's Ministry
Holy women are an incarnation of the feminine ideal;
they are also a model for all Christians.
(Pope St. John Paul II, Mulieris Dignitatem)
Starting and maintaining a women's ministry is no easy task, but we have a model that stretches back 2000 years and was instituted by Christ himself. Christ desired for his disciples to support one another as he says in Luke 22:31-32, “Simon, Simon, behold Satan has demanded to sift all of you like wheat, but I have prayed that your own faith may not fail, and once you have turned back, you must strengthen your brethren.” Women are called to strengthen and encourage one another in their roles as sisters, mothers, spouses, and consecrated.
Below are some resources to assist parishes in building vibrant and evangelizing women's ministries.
Women at the Well is a parish based program for women to grow in Faith and Community. It’s foundational structure comes from John 4 and the story of St. Photini, the Samaritan Woman and her encounter with Jesus at the well. After this encounter she couldn’t help but run to town and tell everyone “Come, see a man who told me all I ever did. Can this be the Christ” (John 4:29)
Marian Consecration
Marian consecration is the act of entrusting one’s body, soul, possessions, works, and entire life to the protection, guidance, and intercession of Our Lady.
The act of entrusting oneself to Mary’s care and intercession is nothing new. Jesus Himself entrusted His beloved disciple, John, to Mary while He was on the Cross (John 19:26-27).
Consecration to St. Joseph
What does it mean for a person to be consecrated to
St. Joseph?
Well, it basically means that you acknowledge that he is your spiritual father, and you want to be like him. To show it, you entrust yourself entirely into his paternal care so that he can help you acquire his virtues and become holy.
