ST. LOUIS — In a ceremony held last June, Anna “Annie” Girresch was ordained as a Catholic priest in a ritual attended by more than 70 people, including her family and supporters, despite the Roman Catholic Church’s official stance that such ordinations constitute a grave violation of church law. The ceremony took place in an older church building, where Girresch, along with 12 other women, participated in traditional ordination rites involving prayers, the laying on of hands, and anointing with oil.

During the event, Girresch lay prostrate before the altar as the Litany of the Saints was recited, with members of the congregation approaching to place their hands on her head in a gesture of blessing. The ordaining bishop then raised her right hand to the ceiling and introduced her to the assembly as a newly ordained priest, prompting applause and cheers from attendees.

The ordinations are part of a broader movement involving approximately 300 women across the United States and at least nine other countries who have pursued positions as deacons, priests, and bishops despite the Catholic Church’s firm opposition. These women come from diverse backgrounds, including lifelong Catholics, converts, former nuns, educators, and chaplains.

The Roman Catholic Church maintains that only men may be ordained as priests and considers the ordination of women a direct violation of its canon law, resulting in automatic excommunication. Nonetheless, women like Girresch and their supporters argue that the Church must evolve to become more inclusive and supportive. Girresch’s father, Wil, expressed gratitude and support for his daughter’s decision, describing her ordination as a blessing. His wife, Ellen, echoed this sentiment by emphasizing the need for a more accepting church.

The actions of these women highlight ongoing tensions within the Catholic community regarding tradition, gender roles, and the future direction of church leadership. While the Vatican has repeatedly reaffirmed its doctrinal position, the continued ordination of women challenges the boundaries set by church hierarchy and raises questions about potential reforms in the long term. For now, women like Girresch continue their ministries outside the official structures of the Roman Catholic Church, driven by their convictions and the support of their communities.