The Diocesan Commission for Women has always been involved in issues upholding the dignity and vocation of women, and now is beginning a focus on life issues, hosting events for women by women, and helping the women of our Diocese to be well-informed.
"The Synod or Bishops responses voiced a strong desire among the faithful for more opportunities to learn about their faith,” said Kristin Osenbach, Director of Evangelization and Formation.
“We hope to combine this desire for faith formation with spiritual enrichment and fellowship. We want to empower women with the truth and beauty of their faith so they can continue to build a strong culture of life.”
“I am grateful that the Commission for Women is contributing to the continuing formation of the people of our Diocese about life issues,” said Bishop Alfred Schlert. “They will help us remember that, as Catholics, we are called to cherish, defend and protect our most vulnerable, from the beginning to the end of their lives.”
Two events are scheduled for this fall, with more to come.
Monday, Oct. 24, the Commission will host a “Forever in Our Hearts” Mass celebrated by Bishop Schlert at 6:30 p.m. at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, Bethlehem.
“Forever in Our Hearts” is a special Mass for all parents who have lost a child through miscarriage, abortion, stillbirth, or in early infancy. It is the hope of the Church that, by acknowledging and remembering our littlest children, and offering them to God’s care, individuals and families may find comfort and healing.
Saturday, Oct. 29, All women are invited to a day of reflection on the “Dignity of Life and the Informed Conscience,” from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at St. Mary Church, Kutztown.
The day will begin with a bilingual Mass celebrated by Father Matthew Kuna.
After a light breakfast, guest speakers and a Q&A panel will provide participants with the opportunity to learn more about the sanctity of human life from conception to natural death, authentic femininity, and practical applications for building a culture of life.
The event will provide participants with resources on how they can get involved in promoting a culture of life. It will feature both an English and Spanish track.
To register, click here.
The Commission for Women meets monthly via Zoom. The members are appointed by the Bishop. They are Kathleen Nevel, Helen Tran, Celeste Behe, Katya Fitzpatrick, Maryann Guman, Michele Heim, Beverly McDevitt, Lisa Perez, Sandra Zawistowski, and Kristin Osenbach as Diocesan Liaison.
For more information, contact Kristin Osenbach, 610-866-0581 ext. 2035 or kosenbach@allentowndiocese.org.
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