Trois-Rivières, March 8, 2023 – On this, the second day of their two-day gathering to collect and assimilate the diocesan synodal syntheses from across the province, along with the Provincial Synthesis - Quebec and the document taking shape in the continental stage of consultations held during the Synod on Synodality launched in October 2021, a group of almost 150 people from all dioceses of Quebec are marking International Women's Day. 

Every year, this day provides an opportunity to stop and reflect on the place of women in society and, for us specifically, in the Church. This year, our reflection will draw on related concerns voiced during the synodal process and in the course of our consultations on how we "walk together" and how we can become more responsive. This communiqué highlights those concerns. 

Throughout the meetings held in all the dioceses, the place of women was a recurring issue that resonated strongly. The Provincial Synthesis – Quebec –  Synod on synodality recognizes this as the fourth of seven structuring themes that emerged from the diocesan summaries: "Towards co-responsible governance by clergy and laity and men and women; decision-making, ordained ministries, the role of women." The National Synthesis for Canada takes these points into account in two sections: "Co-Responsibility in the Mission of the Church" and "Authority and Participation." For its part, the Working Document for the Continental Stage recognizes the importance of the role of women as reflected in all the national syntheses and proposes "Rethinking women's participation" in the light of our common baptismal dignity. 

On this International Women's Day, let us pause to consider, each of us and collectively, how to follow through within our particular communities on the issues mentioned here. And as we do, let us not forget to listen to the Holy Spirit, so as to become worthy witnesses of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. 

+Christian Rodembourg 
Bishop of Saint-Hyacinthe 
President of the Assembly of Quebec Catholic Bishops