HONORING A LEGACY OF COURAGE AND FAITH
An Exhibition Honoring Bishop Barbara Harris and the Philadelphia Eleven
In 2024, the Rt. Rev. Daniel G.P. Gutierrez, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Pennsylvania, expressed a deep desire to commemorate two historic moments in the Episcopal Church:
The ordination of the Philadelphia Eleven at the Church of the Advocate on July 29, 1974—eleven women coming from all around the country to step into their calling as ordained priests, despite the national church's lack of sanction at the time.
The consecration of Bishop Barbara Harris in 1989—the first woman bishop, who was nurtured within this Diocese and later became Bishop Suffragan of the Diocese of Massachusetts.
In response to this vision, a dedicated committee has been formed to establish a lasting space to honor these courageous women. The result is The Center for Courageous Women of Faith—a place where their stories, struggles, and triumphs can inspire future generations.
Honoring Legacy. Inspiring Action.
Our Mission
The Center for Courageous Women of Faith (CCWOF) shares the stories of the Philadelphia Eleven and Bishop Barbara Harris, trailblazing women in faith, to inspire others to pursue their own calling and promote justice and unity in communities.
Our Vision
The Center for Courageous Women of Faith (CCWOF) aspires to celebrate equity, justice, voice, inclusion, and boldness in faith and community, fostering a world where each person is empowered to live out their vocation.
The impact of the Philadelphia Eleven and Bishop Harris extends far beyond their time. Their courage has paved the way for generations of clergy.
“Growing up in the Diocese of New Jersey, Christ Church in Toms River, I was fortunate to have really good mentors. These folks were almost exclusively all women clergy members. My rector, the Rev. Joan Mason showed me what a priest should be like, she showed me the love of God here on earth. If it weren’t for the Philadelphia Eleven, I don’t think I would be a priest. The impact of these eleven women is profound. I’m grateful for their bravery and willingness to say yes to God’s call for them. ”
Rev. Thomas Szczerba, Associate Rector, St. David’s, Wayne, PA
Co-Chair, The Center for Courageous Women of Faith Committee
Join Us in Building the Future
The Center for Courageous Women of Faith is still in its early stages and needs your support to become a reality. Your contributions—whether financial or in-kind—will help create a space that commemorates these groundbreaking achievements and ensures their message reaches future generations.
We invite you to be part of this vital mission. To donate to our efforts, click the Donate button below. For more information about how you can support this effort, please complete the Contact Form.
Together, we can honor the past, celebrate the present, and build a future where all are welcomed and empowered in faith.