Cherishing a legacy: how Rev. Jan Donohoo cares for retired ministry women
Before 1989, Anglican women ministering in the Sydney diocese were “set apart” as deaconesses— the lay order from which ADM’s name is derived. In 1989, that changed as trained women began to be ordained as deacons. There are no more deaconesses working in paid employment, though some still serve as they can and pray faithfully. And now, we are seeing the first female deacons start to retire. Rev. Jan Donohoo was in that historic first cohort of female deacons, and since then, she’s served in various ministry across the Diocese. All the diversity of her experiences have prepared her well for her current role: ADM Chaplain to the deaconesses and retired female clergy.
“A bond of union and sympathy”
100 Years Ago, Deaconesses battled the Influenza epidemic
They didn’t have Zoom. But the Deaconesses in Sydney were well prepared to care for those around them during the “Spanish flu” pandemic of 1919…
Celebrating History in the Making
Thirty years ago as Queen Elizabeth graced the front page of The London Times, 14 Anglican women made their own headlines seven pages later in the same edition. The reason? They were the first women ordained as deacons in the Sydney Diocese. This past May, over 200 ministers and friends gathered in St Andrew’s Cathedral to celebrate the thirtieth anniversary of that historic ordination.
Pranks, laughter and service: Deaconess Doreen Garrick
From spirited, mischievous college girl to dedicated, energetic deaconess, Doreen Garrick’s heart for the lost and vigour for the gospel has always been central to her identity. Her story reflects how God can work through the most ordinary moments and smallest decisions of our lives to bring about his glory…
Celebrating our Deaconesses
ADM was delighted to welcome a number of deaconesses and female deacons for a lunch in our offices on Friday, 13 April. These women have played a vital role in churches and communities across Sydney and beyond…
Who was Mary Andrews?
Mary Andrews College and ADM stand on a legacy of inspiring women – one of whom is Mary Andrews herself. This courageous pioneer sets an example for women of faith today ...
