Joining Catholic communities globally, we honor St. Phoebe during September. In his letter to the Romans, St.  Paul introduces St. Phoebe as his representative and a "minister of the church at Cenchreae," urging the Roman church to "receive her in the Lord in a manner worthy of the holy ones" (Romans 16:1-3). Our September commemoration aligned with the upcoming General Assembly of the Synod in Rome in October, which will listen to and focus on many themes raised by the worldwide faithful, including women's contributions to and participation in the local and global Church. 

Inspired by St. Phoebe's legacy of faith, servant-leadership, and dedication to community, our St. Monica Catholic Community celebrated her during weekend Masses with Scriptural Reflections from five faith-filled women leaders in our parish—Christine Gerety, Carmen Ramos, Sharon Arnett, Kristin McCowan, and Jenna Clingingsmith—each of whom, like St. Phoebe, lives her life with great faith, a deep desire to serve, and dedication to the Body of Christ.

More resources for the celebration of St. Phoebe and in anticipation of the Global Synod:

• "Who Was St. Phoebe?"
• "5 Things Every Catholic Should Know on the Eve of the Global Synod"
• St. Phoebe Prayer Booklet
• Fr. Felix Just SJ on St. Phoebe’s Sainthood

To find out how you can take action in our community and around the world during this month of St. Phoebe, visit Discerning Deacons here.

And for more even St. Phoebe news and to subscribe to the Discerning Deacons Witness newsletter, visit Discerning Deacons here.

Spiritual Reflections 

About Our Presenters

Christine Gerety

Dr. Christine A. Gerety is the Director of Spiritual Care & Engagement at St. Monica Catholic Community. She has been a part of the community for 18 years, serving both as a volunteer and staff member. Christine works with pastoral care ministries, the Spirituality Center programs, and helps parishioners discover their gifts to get involved at St. Monica. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, learning new languages, and practicing improv comedy. When asked what she loves most about her role, Christine says, "I have the privilege of helping wonderful, loving people do great things for others!"

Carmen Ramos

Carmen Ramos is a first-generation Mexican-American from central California, currently working for the Office of Diaconate Formation for the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. She prepares future deacons and their wives for ministry and is passionate about supporting the flourishing of women. Carmen is dedicated to accompanying others on their faith journey through spiritual direction, pastoral formation, and retreats. She feels blessed to be part of the St. Monica community, where she finds nourishment and connection.

Sharon Arnett

Sharon Arnett has been a devoted parishioner of St. Monica since 2002. On her first day, she joined the Hospitality Ministry and has been serving in it for 22 years. Sharon has organized New Parishioner Welcome Events and volunteered at the Thanksgiving Feast. She has also been part of the Race 4 Veronika’s Place Team and serves on the Holy Cross Africa Ministry Core Team. Last summer, she led a team to St. Monica’s sister parish, Holy Cross Dandora in Kenya.

Kristin McCowan

Kristin McCowan has been a St. Monica parishioner for over 40 years, participating in faith formation programs and leading the confirmation faith formation program from 2009 to 2011. Growing up in Santa Monica, she and her family have been deeply involved in the parish. Kristin's career in government and public service includes roles at the White House and the Santa Monica City Council, where she served as Mayor Pro Tempore. Now in the private sector, she focuses on serving communities in LA. Kristin, her husband Albert, and their two children, all have strong ties to St. Monica.

Jenna Clingingsmith

Jenna Clingingsmith comes from a family devoted to ministry and proudly carries on that tradition. With years of experience in faith formation, she now works in the faith-based entertainment industry. Jenna has been attending St. Monica for over 25 years and is proud to be part of the community. She is excited to participate in the St. Phoebe Day celebration, continuing her commitment to her faith and the St. Monica family.