As the Church marks International Women’s Day, the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference has invited Catholics across the country to reflect on the role women have played in the life of the Church from the very beginning.

In a pastoral letter released this week, Bishop Michael Morrissey, Bishop of Geraldton and the Bishops Conference Delegate for Women, encouraged the faithful to look again at the Gospel stories that reveal the faith, courage and leadership of women who accompanied Jesus. 

From Mary of Nazareth’s courageous “yes”, to the Samaritan woman who became a messenger to her community, and Mary Magdalene who first proclaimed the Resurrection, women are present throughout the Gospel as disciples, witnesses and leaders in faith. 

The letter notes that women continue this mission today across Australia, serving their communities in families, workplaces, schools, health care and parish life, often carrying immense responsibility with quiet dedication. 

At the same time, it acknowledges that many women continue to face injustice, violence, economic disadvantage and exclusion from decision making, calling on communities to examine how power and responsibility are shared in homes, workplaces and Church life. 

Within the Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle, Bishop Michael Kennedy said the day is an opportunity to recognise the many women who shape the life and mission of the Church across the region. 

“Women contribute in so many ways to the life of our diocesan community,” Bishop Michael said.  

“In our parishes, schools and agencies, women offer leadership, wisdom, compassion and faith that sustain the life of our Church and our wider community.” 

Across the Diocese, women serve in leadership, education, pastoral ministry, social services and administration, helping guide the Church’s mission in the Hunter and Manning regions. 

“International Women’s Day is a chance to give thanks for the countless ways women share their gifts in the life of the Church,” Bishop Michael said. 

“It is also a reminder that the dignity, voice and participation of women must always be valued as we continue growing together in faith.” 

The Bishops Conference pastoral letter concludes with a prayer that the Church in Australia will continue to grow in recognising and honouring the dignity and mission of women, guided by the example of Mary, Mother of the Church. 

To read the full statement from the Australian Catholic Bishops Council, visit: Pastoral letter on International Women’s Day – ACBC MediaBlog