In an act akin to civil disobedience, a group of women and their supporters organize their ordination to become Episcopal priests in 1974. The Church of the Advocate in Philadelphia welcomes them, but change is no small task. The women are harassed, threatened, and banned from stepping on church property.

In this feature-length documentary film, we meet the women who challenge the very essence of patriarchy within Christendom and succeed in building a movement that transforms an age-old institution.

Everyone is invited to the film screening at 3:00 p.m. on October 19, in the Englehard Theater at St. Andrew’s School in Middletown. There will be a panel discussion following the film, where the audience will have the opportunity to ask questions. The discussion will be moderated by the Rev. Louise Howlett and the Rev. Canon Marianne Ell (the first woman ordained in the Diocese of Easton and the Canon for Strategic Mission in the Episcopal Church in Delaware).

The panel will include:

The Rev. Anne Bonnyman: The first female rector in every parish she has served, including Trinity Boston and Trinity Parish in Wilmington, Anne will reflect on how Delaware opened opportunities for women clergy during a critical period.

Cana Hartman: A dedicated young adult and granddaughter of the late Rev. Kay Scobell, the third woman ordained in Delaware and a civil rights advocate. Cana serves as the youth lead for diocesan youth ministry and parish administrator at St. Thomas’s Parish. She will offer her perspective on her grandmother’s legacy and its impact on her life today.

The Rev. Canon Lloyd Casson: Bringing invaluable historical insight, Lloyd will share his own groundbreaking experiences and his role in a significant service for women at the National Cathedral.

The Rev. Canon Marianne Ell (co-moderator): The first woman ordained in the Diocese of Easton, daughter of an Episcopal bishop, and currently Canon of Strategic Mission for our diocese.

The Rev. Louise Howlett (co-moderator): The fifth woman ordained in the Episcopal Church in Delaware, the first woman chaplain at St. Andrew’s School, and founding chaplain at St. Anne’s Episcopal School. Louise is currently Dean of Clergy for the Episcopal Church in New Hampshire.

We encourage everyone to attend this important event. Be part of the conversation as we celebrate the women who have shaped the Episcopal Church in Delaware.

Advance registration is required. Reserve your spot today by registering here