"..often your chaplaincy might be hundreds of miles from, or even in a different country, from the closest other chaplain... It's lovely to actually come together as a group of support and encouragement, but also as women, it is, I think, important again, because we sometimes face different issues that our male colleagues don't.” 

Rev Carla Vicencio Prior, St Vincent’s chaplaincy, Portugal 

In Madrid last week, 18 female clergy who serve across the Diocese in Europe met for a few days of fellowship at the Conference for Women Clergy.  Held at La Salle Centro Universitario, the conference was generously sponsored by CCLA and discussions led by Bishop Jo Bailey-Wells, Bishop for Episcopal Ministry and Deputy Secretary General of the Anglican Communion.   

The conference was a vital opportunity to share and discuss many of the issues, some of which are unique to female clergy; 

At the end of the conference, a service to celebrate the 30^th anniversary of women’s ordination to the priesthood was held at St George’s chaplaincy in Madrid.  The live stream of the service was enjoyed by many across the diocese, with comments including; 

“Many thanks to St.George's Anglican Church, Madrid for live streaming this service, enabling many of us in the Diocese in Europe to share in this wonderful celebration. A very important moment in the life and history of the Church of England” 

“What a moving service and wonderful celebration” 

Bishop Jo presided over the service and reflected; 

“It was a delight to preside at the service marking 30 years since the first women were ordained in the Diocese of Europe and to lead their conference sessions. We have explored some of the Old Testament prophets – those called to speak for God – seeking both wisdom and inspiration for addressing some of the opportunities and challenges across Europe today. Among these women I find similar courage, adventure and faithfulness – a commitment to speak the truth and build communities of truth in a lonely post-truth world.” 

You can still enjoy a recording of the live stream of the service on St George’s Facebook page here: LIVESTREAM OF SERVICE

If you are interested in a vocation and joining the growing number of female clergy in the Diocese in Europe, please see here: Women's Ministry