The event marked a significant collaboration between Assumption University and St. Peter's Seminary, highlighting their joint commitment to fostering dialogue and formation within the Church. Bishop Ronald Fabbro opened the evening by expressing his appreciation for the synodal process—a Church that listens, discerns, and walks together. He emphasized the importance of hearing women’s voices, acknowledging their leadership, and recognizing their indispensable role in guiding the Church through the Holy Spirit. This panel was historic in its representation of women actively shaping the Church’s future.
Four distinguished panelists—Dr. Maha Al Reze, Dr. Moira McQueen, Linda Staudt, and Professor Angela Tounis—shared their personal and professional journeys in the Church. Each woman brought a unique perspective from their experiences in education, theology, pastoral work, and synodal leadership. Linda Staudt, notably the first laywoman to present a synodal report to Canada’s bishops, shared how lay leadership—especially women's contributions—has begun to transform Church structures. Dr. McQueen added theological depth, referencing her work on the International Theological Commission and her advocacy for greater inclusion of lay voices.
A key focus of the discussion was the formation of seminarians. Professor Tounis emphasized the need for behavioral training, active listening, and gender bias education in seminaries. The panelists agreed that fostering a culture of co-responsibility between clergy and laity must start with mutual respect and concrete practices within seminary formation. They highlighted that raising awareness and sharing leadership roles are necessary steps toward a more inclusive and collaborative Church.
The conversation then turned to the types of leadership roles available to women, especially in contexts where ordination is not an option. The panel celebrated Pope Francis’ recent appointments of women to significant Vatican roles, such as Sister Nathalie Becquart. They discussed how dioceses and parishes are increasingly recognizing women’s leadership in canon law, administration, education, and pastoral care. The message was clear: many roles in the Church do not require ordination, and space must be made to encourage and prepare women for these responsibilities.
Finally, the panel explored the contributions of Eastern Catholic Churches to the global synodal dialogue, particularly concerning the roles of women. Immigrant communities face unique challenges—including language barriers and cultural expectations—but also offer rich traditions and deep devotion. Panelists and attendees called for more support, education, and inclusion of women from these communities. They advocated for regular gatherings to amplify these voices and ensure that synodality reaches all corners of the Church. The evening closed with gratitude and a renewed call to build a Church that listens, learns, and walks together—laity and clergy, women and men, as one body.
Journal and reflect on the following
How does the synodal model of 'listening, discerning, and walking together' challenge or deepen your understanding of the Church’s mission today?
Consider what this means for both clergy and laity, and how it might reshape parish life or leadership.
In what ways have you seen women contribute meaningfully to Church leadership in your own community, and where do you see gaps or missed opportunities?
Think about areas such as education, liturgy, pastoral care, and administration.
What practical steps can be taken in seminaries and parishes to prepare clergy to collaborate more effectively with women in leadership roles?
How can attitudes, training, or systems be improved to foster mutual respect and co-responsibility?
Why is it important that laypeople—especially women—have a voice in Church decision-making, even if they are not ordained?
Reflect on the difference between “decision-making” and “decision-taking” as mentioned by the panelists.
How do cultural and linguistic barriers impact participation in Church life for immigrant and Eastern Catholic communities?
What can be done to ensure these communities, particularly women, are heard and supported?
What does co-responsibility between laity and clergy look like in action?
Reflect on any examples in your local parish, school, or diocese where shared leadership is working—or where it is lacking.
How might your own gifts, voice, and experiences be better used to support the Church’s synodal journey?
Consider whether there are roles or ministries you could step into, or how you might encourage others to do so.
Discuss
Song - We are one Body
Final Prayer
Loving God, We thank You for the gift of Your Church, called to walk together as one body, guided by the Spirit of truth and love. As we continue on this synodal journey, open our hearts to listen deeply to one another, especially to the voices that have been overlooked or unheard. Strengthen the women who faithfully lead, serve, and witness in Your name, and inspire all of us—clergy and laity—to share in the responsibility of building a Church rooted in communion, participation, and mission. May we walk forward together with humility, courage, and hope, always discerning Your will and following the path of Christ. Amen.
