This summer marks the 50th anniversary of the ordination of the “Philadelphia Eleven” at Church of the Advocate in Philadelphia. St. Stephen’s, Richmond, will celebrate this historic event, and the gifts of the opening of all orders of ministry to women, with a weekend of events April 26-28.
Friday, 6 p.m.: Screening of the documentary film, “The Philadelphia Eleven,” followed by “talk back” with the Rev. Claudia Merritt, former associate rector at St. Stephen’s, the Rev. Cate Anthony, current associate rector, and the Rev. Whitney Edwards, vicar of Varina Church and former chaplain at St. Christopher’s School.
Saturday, 9 a.m.-noon: Cate Anthony will lead a half-day retreat for women concluding with a luncheon prepared and served by the Women of St. Stephen’s (parish ECW).
Sunday, 9 and 11:15 a.m.: the Rev. Weezie Blanchard, former vicar at St. Stephen’s, will preach at two morning services
Sunday, 10:10 a.m.: Weezie Blanchard, Cate Anthony, and the Rev. Margaret Austin will speak during the Sunday Forum on a panel moderated by the Rev. John Rohrs, rector
Sunday, 5:30 p.m.: the Rev. Penny Nash, former associate rector at St. Stephen’s and current interim rector at St. James’s, Richmond, will give the reflection at the Celtic service.
All events are free and open to all, though registration is required.