12 March marks a significant milestone - the 30th anniversary of the first women's ordination to the priesthood. The Diocese in Europe is marking the occasion by releasing the below videos which feature women from the diocese sharing their insights, reflections on their roles and journey towards ordination. 

The day began like any other, with the ringing of the phone disrupting Debbie's day off. Little did she know, the call would mark the beginning of a transformative chapter in her life. Recalling the moment General Synod passed the legislation for women to be ordained in the Church of England, "It was a beautiful moment, one that you don't forget" Debbie said. 

The journey to ordained ministry commenced with a meeting with Deaconess Ruth Wintle at Church House, Westminster. Instantly feeling a sense of homecoming, Debbie embarked on the path to become a deaconess, only to face a roadblock by the diocesan bishop towards women's involvement in Church. It was a twelve-year wait before a new diocesan bishop was installed – Bishop John Hind. 

A conversation at a synod with Bishop John led to Debbie's long-awaited ordination as a deacon on 5 March 1994 – almost 30 years exactly to the first ordination of women to the priesthood.  

Reflecting on the journey, Debbie emphasises the valuable lessons she learnt during the waiting period - that full-time service to God manifests in various forms, ordained or not. 

In a heartfelt reflection on his journey in ministry, Revd Beth recalls a poignant moment from early in her career when she was deeply moved by offering communion to older women who were unable to pursue their own vocations in the priesthood.  

Ordained in 2006, Beth reflects on her experiences over the years, most notably in the Diocese of Chelmsford where she has spent the majority of her working ministry life. Beth expresses her gratitude for the diverse community she now serves in Lisbon, embracing the rich tapestry of churchgoers and visitors.  

Despite a three hour drive away from physically nearest colleagues, Beth emphasises the importance of online support networks and gatherings within the diocese, which provide a sense of camaraderie and connection. 

 Last year, the diocese hosted a women's clergy conference, where she engaged with colleagues from various Archdeaconries. The experience was marked by shared stories and a sense of excitement for the future of ministry. As she continues her journey in the priesthood, Beth remains committed to fostering inclusivity, community engagement, and spiritual growth within the diocese. 

Joining Holy Trinity just over six months ago, Vivian reflects on her recent entry into ordained ministry, with her priesting scheduled for July 2024. From a background outside the Anglican Church, she recalls a time when the possibility of women being ordained seemed far-fetched. Despite this, she immersed herself in various forms of Christian ministry over three decades. 

Vivan acknowledges the theological and sociological nuances surrounding gender within clergy roles, especially under the guidance of incumbent, Charlotte Sullivan. 

Delving into the complexities of gender dynamics within the Church, Vivian highlights the invaluable insights gained from learning under a female mentor. She emphasises the importance of recognising the differences in perspective and experience that gender can bring to ministry. 

Looking ahead to her future in ministry, Vivian extends her appreciation to the diocese and above all, to God, for guiding her through this transformative process of growth and understanding. 

Sarah Jane King, serving as the Curate at St. Martha on St. Mary's in the picturesque University City of Leuven in Belgium, offers a glimpse into the diverse and enriching landscape of ministry in her diocese. 

In explaining her perspective of the Diocese in Europe, she said the diocese embraces a myriad of faith traditions and cultural backgrounds. Whether people come from Anglican, Catholic, Protestant, evangelical, Pentecostal backgrounds, or even from no faith tradition at all, Sarah Jane notes the unity found in worshipping together as a community. 

Sarah Jane emphasises the importance of open dialogue on hot button issues and opportunity for mutual learning and growth within the Diocese in Europe.  

Reflecting on her ministry in the diocese, Sarah Jane expresses an appreciation for the sense of belonging and camaraderie within the diocese, describing it as an adventure in following Jesus and embracing the shared experience of discipleship.