Gloria Steinem, Rest in Justice
Gloria Steinem, Rest in Justice
September 3, 2026
WATER mourns the death of feminist leader Gloria Steinem whose consequential life
touched countless people. Her ability to make justice for women a hallmark of every social
change movement was surpassed only by her amazing networking skills and commitment.
touched countless people. Her ability to make justice for women a hallmark of every social
change movement was surpassed only by her amazing networking skills and commitment.
We at WATER remember fondly her participation in the 1987 Women-Church
Convergence conference in Cincinnati, Ohio. As she rode an escalator in the conference venue,
she was asked why she, a seemingly secular feminist, was at the conference with 1200+ mostly
Catholic women. Surveying the atrium she replied, “This is the women’s movement.”
Convergence conference in Cincinnati, Ohio. As she rode an escalator in the conference venue,
she was asked why she, a seemingly secular feminist, was at the conference with 1200+ mostly
Catholic women. Surveying the atrium she replied, “This is the women’s movement.”
She understood that religion requires serious feminist attention for anything to change
in the world. Our work was inspired by hers, blessed by the model of inclusion and
commitment, tireless efforts and enduring hope that she was.
Gloria Steinem, thank you for giving us a light from your mighty torch.
in the world. Our work was inspired by hers, blessed by the model of inclusion and
commitment, tireless efforts and enduring hope that she was.
Gloria Steinem, thank you for giving us a light from your mighty torch.
Upcoming Programs
WATER and Women of Dignity Quarterly Meeting*
Sunday, September 13, 2026, 11:30 AM ET
“Moving Along My Faith Journey”
with Kathy Ann Gianino
Faith journeys are unique and formative. Kathy Ann Gianino is an active septuagenarian. Her faith journey has taken her from 12 years of parochial school and the Newman Club in college through fifty years of active membership in Dignity Boston. She is a liturgist and liturgical dancer whose grace abounds. Join us for a hearty conversation with a minister whose movements deepen prayer for all.
*This event is open to all Lesbian/Bisexual,Transgender/Queer Women as well as those identifying as Nonbinary/Gender Expansive and all our women friends.
WATERritual
Tuesday, September 15, 2026, 7:30 PM ET
“Lift Up Peacemakers for International Day of Peace”
with Diann Neu and the WATER Community
“I will write peace on your wings and you will fly all over the world.”
– Sadako Sasaki
On September 21 every year, people around the world come together to advocate for peace in its many forms. The United Nations’ theme for 2026 is “Invest in Peace – For Everyone, Everywhere, Every Day.” As wars continue to rage and reveal divisions worldwide, we come together to honor peacemakers and pray for peace. Join us!
WATERmeditation
Monday, September 21, 2026, 7:30 PM ET
“Mutual Gaze”
with Virigina Day
Nurse and spiritual director Virginia Day describes a chance encounter with a seagull that illustrates the many possibilities of relationships. Join us to explore the depths at which we are connected to all that is.
WATERtalk
Wednesday, September 23, 2026, 1 PM ET
“The Anglican Church in Palestine”
with Kwok Pui-Lan and Ms. Nuha El-Far Shaheen
Anglican postcolonial theologian Kwok Pui-Lan will discuss the pathfinding new book The Anglican Church and Palestine, which she edited. Anglican theologians reflect of colonialism, Christian Zionism, and war. She will highlight Palestinian women’s work for justice, peace, and reconciliation and the implications for the global church. This is a timely introduction to the British Empire’s colonial legacy in Israel/Palestine and the roles played by The Church of England and The Episcopal Church in light of the current conflict.
Pui-Lan will be joined by Ms. Nuha El-Far Shaheen, a Palestinian Anglican colleague. She will speak about life in Palestine and her call for women’s solidarity to speak out for justice.
Dignity USA and WATER
Tuesday, September 29, 2026, 8 PM ET
40 Years Since the Vatican’s Letter on Pastoral Care of Homosexual Persons. Session 1: The Immediate and Short-Term Impact of the Letter’s Release.”
Scheduled speakers: Jeannine Gramick, Mary E. Hunt, Bryan Massingale.
Moderated by Marianne Duddy-Burke.
*Information to register will follow soon.
WATER in the Media
Introducing “Kwok’n Roll” – The Podcast That Sparks Bold Conversations!
Join the incredible Kwok Pui Lan as she kicks off her highly anticipated podcast, Kwok’n Roll! In each episode, Kwok Pui Lan dives deep into captivating conversations with some of the brightest minds of our time—trailblazing intellectuals, fearless religious leaders, passionate activists, and groundbreaking artists. Together, they explore the pressing political, cultural, and religious issues shaping our world today, all while examining the vital role people of faith play in these pivotal conversations. Listen to the podcast on Podbean.
Faithful Provocations
What does it mean to be a person of faith in today’s challenging world? Postcolonial theologian Kwok Pui Lan explores Christianity, social justice, and cross-cultural dialogue — with wit, depth, and a little rock ‘n’ roll spirit. Formerly Kwok ‘n’ Roll channel. Watch the series on YouTube.
Canadian Broadcasting Cooperation (CBC) Interview:
In an interview with the CBC, feminist theologian Mary E. Hunt urged urgent reform of the papal election process. Co-founder of the Women’s Alliance for Theology, Ethics, and Ritual (WATER), Hunt explained that the process lacks transparency and needs to be more inclusive. With concern growing about Pope Francis’ health, she stressed the importance of including a far more diverse group of electors, including young people and women. She also commented on the movie “Conclave” lest viewers think they know much more about the secret process. Women were portrayed accurately in the movie as only one had real voice. Surely change is needed.
What is WATER? 40 Years and Forward!
Connect with the WATER Community!
Stay updated with WATER news, events, programs and more!
Land Acknowledgement
WATER, located in Silver Spring, Maryland, acknowledges that it sits on the traditional and contemporary homeland of the Piscataway and Nacotchtank (sometimes known as the Anacostan) people, the original stewards of this land.
We are committed to lifting up the names of these lands and the community members from these nations who reside alongside us and who were here long before we were. We affirm WATER’s intention to promote healing, respect, and love for all people through our work, with special indebtedness to Native people whose lands we are privileged to share.