The Diocese of Wichita held its first Catholic Women’s Conference on March 8 at the Church of the Magdalen in Wichita. The event drew over 600 attendees and featured keynote speakers Claire Dwyer and Sr. Bethany Madonna, who stepped in for Sr. Mary Grace due to illness.

Sr. Bethany Madonna, a Sister of Life, expressed her enthusiasm about participating in the conference. "I was very eager to get here and visit Fr. Kapaun," she said, noting the palpable presence she felt at the Cathedral.

The conference began with a Mass celebrated by Bishop Carl Kemme, who thanked participants for their dedication to faith and growth within the Church. "I thank you for being here today, for sacrificing so much to be in this gathering; it truly is a testament to your faith and your desire to grow more deeply in love with Christ and his Church," he stated.

Claire Dwyer delivered a keynote address focusing on God’s love and the life of St. Elizabeth of the Trinity. She encouraged attendees by saying, "I am convinced that we have been brought to the threshold of a new age in the Church."

Sr. Bethany Madonna's presentation included stories from her experiences with Sisters of Life, emphasizing women's value beyond worldly achievements. "You are valuable because you are loved; because God chose you to be," she told attendees.

The event organizers expressed satisfaction with how the conference unfolded despite changes in plans. Becky Knapp noted, “It met – and exceeded – all our expectations.” Jessica Tarbell added that after long preparations, "it was even better than I could have dreamt."

Attendees like Joan Stadler and Rachel Lewis showed eagerness for future conferences, recognizing a diverse range of women present at this inaugural event.

Bishop Kemme also discussed St. Pope John Paul II’s apostolic letter Mulieris Dignitatem during his homily, reflecting on women's roles within the Church context.

The conference concluded with hopes that it would become an annual tradition, fostering spiritual growth among women in the diocese.