Each year, International Women’s Day, on March 8, provides an opportunity to reflect on the dignity, role, and contributions of women in the world. As Catholics, we recognize that God created women with a unique and sacred purpose. “The Lord God said, ‘It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him’” (Genesis 2:18). From the moment of creation, women have played an essential role in God’s plan, and throughout history, their contributions have been vital in the family, the Church, and society.
The Role of Women in God’s Plan
According to Scripture, God created Eve from Adam’s rib to be his helpmate and wife so that they could “be fruitful and multiply” (Genesis 1:22, 9:7). They were meant to work together in harmony. However, after the fall in the Garden of Eden, sin entered the world, and “God’s perfect plan was thwarted.” As a result, “women haven’t always been given equal rights as men, even though the Bible (Genesis 1:26-28), the Bill of Rights, and the Constitution affirm their equality” (according to the source text).
History has shown the perseverance of women in the face of injustice. The suffragists fought tirelessly for the right to vote, and thanks to their efforts, women gained this privilege. International Women’s Day, which dates back to March 19, 1911, saw over a million people in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland advocating for women’s rights. The United Nations officially recognized this day in 1977, reinforcing the dignity and equality of women worldwide.
Recognizing Women’s Contributions in the Catholic Church
The Church has always honored the contributions of women. From the Blessed Virgin Mary, who humbly accepted her role in salvation history, to St. Joan of Arc, St. Teresa of Calcutta, and countless other female saints, Catholic women have been leaders, teachers, and spiritual guides. The Catechism of the Catholic Church reminds us that “man and woman have been created, which is to say, willed by God: on the one hand, in perfect equality as human persons; on the other, in their respective beings as man and woman” (CCC 369).
In today’s society, as gender roles and identities become increasingly distorted, the need to affirm the God-given dignity of womanhood is more crucial than ever. “As a war on womanhood has reignited in a culture that can’t always define what a woman is, International Women’s Day is a perfect time to reiterate that men and women, while unique in our physical traits, have equal rights” (according to the source text).
Ways to Celebrate International Women’s Day in a Catholic Community
1. Organize a Women’s Ministry Event
Hosting a meal or gathering at your parish is a great way to celebrate the women in your community. According to the source text, one idea is to have each table decorated with themes from different countries, representing various international heritages. Women can share their personal experiences or stories from saints and holy women who have shaped the faith in different cultures.
As Acts 2:42 reminds us, “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” A communal meal can be an opportunity for spiritual growth, prayer, and gratitude for the women in our lives.
2. Encourage Men to Serve Women in the Parish
Men’s ministry groups can take the initiative to prepare and serve a meal for the women and daughters of the parish, as suggested in the source text. “Since women are traditionally responsible for most church functions involving food, a nice way to honor them is for the men and young boys of the church to cook a meal and serve it to women of all ages.”
This act of service reflects the biblical call for men to lead with love and humility, as St. Paul writes: “Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her” (Ephesians 5:25). It also teaches young men to respect and appreciate the women in their lives.
3. Send Cards or Messages to the Women in Your Life
In a world where digital communication often replaces personal connection, taking the time to send a handwritten card, email, or message can be a meaningful way to honor the women in our lives. “Recognizing International Women’s Day by sending cards, electronic cards, texts, phone calls, or emails to the women in your life can be just the encouragement they needed” (according to the source text). As Philippians 1:3 says, “Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God.”
4. Host a Women’s Prayer or Reflection Gathering
Gathering for prayer is another powerful way to celebrate International Women’s Day. A neighborhood gathering or parish event can focus on prayer for women around the world, particularly those facing persecution, hardship, or discrimination. “Open with a time of prayer focusing on the women of the world who may not have the freedoms to gather openly as you’re doing” (according to the source text).
Romans 12:15 encourages us to “share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.” Whether through a prayer group, book club, or coffee gathering, these meetings can foster deep spiritual friendships and mentorships among Catholic women.
International Women’s Day is an opportunity to affirm the dignity, value, and God-given purpose of women. In celebrating this day, we honor the countless women who have shaped the faith, from Mary, the Mother of God, to modern Catholic leaders, mothers, and sisters in Christ.
As David Jeremiah once wrote, “Our loads are too heavy to carry alone, and we need someone to rejoice and to weep with us. Today the Lord may bring across your path someone needing your simple presence. Be there!”
May we use this day to uplift and support the women in our lives, recognizing their unique contributions to our families, Church, and world. And most importantly, may we always remember to give thanks to God for the gift of womanhood, as we continue to strive for holiness together.
