Women In Ministry
Prophet VicariateWomen in Ministry Group
Women play a vital role within the mission of the Church and the expression of that mission in the diocese of Northampton. The Church has consistently emphasised this important, distinct role in her teachings. In Pope Francis Apostolic Exhortation of 2013, ‘The Joy of the Gospel’, we read:
“The Church acknowledges the indispensable contribution which women make to society…I readily acknowledge that many women share pastoral responsibilities with priests, helping to guide people, families and groups and offering new contributions to theological reflection. But we need to create still broader opportunities for a more incisive female presence in the Church. Because “the feminine genius is needed in all expressions in the life of society, the presence of women must also be guaranteed in the workplace” and in the various other settings where important decisions are made, both in the Church and in social structures.” (paragraph 103)
The Women in Ministry Group (WMG) Northampton was formed during the pandemic after a series of conversations online and in person with the then newly installed Bishop David Oakley.
The WMG Northampton currently meets 6 times a year, has already organised a larger Diocesan gathering of women in Oct 2021 and two smaller retreats for the core team.
OUR MAIN PURPOSE
- present the voices of women in the Diocese of Northampton and the many and varied ministries they undertake.
- hope to be an advocate and support to women in the Diocese, sharing and celebrating new perspectives and developments in women’s ministry
Who We Are
Our Contact details
Group Coordinator: Helen Burgess
helen.burgess@northamptondiocese.org