What Circle Members Say About Their Experiences

"Through the Catholic Women Preaching Circle, I’ve met other women who share a deep love for

preaching and encountered some of the very many ways that the Spirit bestows that gift. It’s not

often that we get to share the reflection and prayer and just plain hard work of preparing to break

open the Word—and that has been a gift of the Spirit, too. I am so grateful to see the circle of

Catholic women who are called to preach growing!"

—BJ Brown, MDiv and co-creator of the preaching podcast Believe.Teach.Practice.

"The Catholic Women's Preaching Circle was a blessing I did not expect. I am moved by the courage, wisdom, and talents of the women involved. And maybe most profoundly understand better how for centuries we have been given a one-sided perspective. What women have to say is another side of a coin – an understanding that deserves attention. Participating also strengthened my awareness that we/I bear responsibility to practice what we preach. Writing and then speaking the words has the power to bring change to one’s behavior and soul."

Anne Hansen, M. ED., M.A.

Executive Director, Ignatians West

"Participating in the CWPC was a powerful and liberating experience. The process of preparing, preaching, and receiving feedback among other women was not just helpful, but it was a Spirit-led communal process of listening and discerning. As a woman in ministry, this space was holy ground for me to explore my gifts and further affirmed the deep wisdom that women preachers hold for their communities." 

Stephanie Boccuzzi, M.Div. 

"In my work at Discerning Deacons, I am lucky to meet countless women with a gift and calling for preaching. Where relatively few preaching formation opportunities specifically for Catholic women have existed, the Catholic Women’s Preaching Circle provides a supportive and faith-filled community of learning and practice. When I had the privilege of participating in a Circle myself, I especially appreciated the way that Rhonda created an environment that welcomed experimentation where we had the opportunity to grow as preachers and as constructive listeners with each other." 

Anna Robertson, MTS - Director of Distributed Organizing

"Pope Francis says this is the time and place for laity, especially women, to speak up! The Catholic Women Preaching Circle encourages me to live up to my God-given calling and utilize my Franciscan charism to proclaim the Good News in my life as best I can...We must confer legitimacy on one another. Thanks be to God!"

Katja May, PhD, OFS 

“The Circle is a nourishing, respectful, place embracing and supporting each other in faith and hope. I looked forward to our gathering each week.” 

Jane Egan

“Having the space and support of the Catholic Women’s Preaching Circle has allowed me to grow in skill and confidence. I have been able to take the encouragement and feedback from the women in my group and immediately apply it to my Contemplative Services in my military unit. I am very grateful for this community that walks with me in my ministry to our Armed Forces.” 

Chaplain Jessica Morel