Celebrating 30 Years of Women's Ordination
12 March marks a significant milestone - the 30th anniversary of the first women's ordination to the priesthood. This pivotal occasion is being commemorated across the Diocese in Europe and the Church of England, with cathedrals hosting special services to honour the progress achieved over the past three decades.
The Diocese in Europe is marking the occasion by releasing daily videos between 12 – 16 March featuring women from the diocese sharing their insights, reflections on their roles and journey towards ordination.
As a member of the first cohort of ordained women, Revd Canon Ulla Monberg, (as seen front and centre in the photo above) Diocesan Director of Ministerial Development, played a historic role in reshaping the landscape of ministry. Recalling the pivotal moment at Church House in 1993, Ulla vividly explains how she, alongside her fellow women from Westcott House, watched from the gallery as the decision to allow women to serve as priests was announced. "At lunchtime, none of us thought this was going to go through, and we were absolutely amazed at the sea change, because it did," she said.
Reflecting on the pivotal moment when the legislation allowing women's ordination was passed, Revd Debbie Flach, Dean of Women's Ministry for the diocese and Chaplain in Lille, recalls the excitement and joy when she heard the news over the phone. "It's one of those moments where you will remember exactly where you were and what you were doing." She shared how she received the news while ironing on her day off—a mundane task made extraordinary by the historic announcement.
Looking back on the past three decades, Debbie acknowledges the challenges that women faced in the early days of ordination: "There was suspicion around every corner," but despite the obstacles, progress has been made, with more women entering the priesthood.
Despite encountering resistance and a twelve-year wait for her ordination, Debbie remained steadfast in her calling. "It's been quite a journey," she reflects. "It was a long wait, but it taught me that service comes in various forms."
Annie Bolger, Assistant Chaplain at Holy Trinity, Brussels shared her recent ordination as a deacon in 2020, amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. She spoke of the significance of being part of a cohort that included three women alongside a man. In talking about her ordained ministry life, Annie said: "I find myself sought out for pastoral care by particular people. And I wouldn't want to put that all down to gender. But I think that there can be a components to that."
In a video to the diocese, Revd Vivian Sockett, Curate at Holy Trinity, Maisons-Laffitte, shared her experience of not growing up in the Anglican Church where women's ordination was not possible. "I accepted it and have served in many different aspects of Christian ministry for the past 30 years," she explains, emphasising the diverse forms of ministry beyond ordination.
While Revd Beth Bendrey, Chaplain, St George and St Paul, Lisbon shared a touching moment from her journey, recalling the emotional experience of leading communion following her priesting. "I was so moved by women from older generations coming forward to receive Communion from me, women who would have been unable to pursue their own vocation to ordained ministry."
Revd Sarah-Jane King, Curate, St Martha and St Mary's, Leuven, talked of her appreciation for the mutual respect and learning within the Diocese in Europe, “It's a place where we can talk and discuss and learn from and show respect for one another's views as we journey together.”
In celebrating this anniversary, Debbie extends a warm invitation to women clergy worldwide. "Come join us," she says. "You are most welcome, and there'll be a very warm reception awaiting you."
As we honour 30 years of women's ordination, we reflect on the progress achieved and commit to furthering inclusivity and diversity within the Church. Through the dedication of individuals like Debbie, Beth, Sarah-Jane and Vivian, we can strive for a more inclusive Church for all.
