Oklahoma Catholic Women’s Conference: 3 takeaways

Message Delivered, Received: For the more than 1,350 women who attended this year’s Oklahoma Catholic Women’s Conference, the theme – “Talitha Koum: Women, Arise!” – was clearly shared.

One clear message is that the world does not dictate what it means to be woman, it is the Church, in all her beauty and goodness that boldly and unapologetically holds the truth of femininity.

A relic of Saint Catherine of Siena graced the backdrop of a sunlit adoration chapel, reminding all to “Be who you were created to be and set the world on fire.” 

Sounds and Sights: Rachael Killackey, speaking in Oklahoma for the first time, addressed the issue of pornography as not only impacting men, enlightening attendees on the dangerous power of a woman’s creative mind when used impurely.

Killackey shared her personal story, along with the damaging facts of pornography among women (average initial exposure for girls is age 11-13), with a reverence and a focus on God’s redeeming love.

Carrie Gress and Montse Alvarado, two other speakers, reminded the crowd to never shy away from being the change the world needs, suggesting honestly lived femininity holds the key to unlocking the culture shift so desperately needed today. The message to reclaim true femininity rang strong through their words. And Sister Mary Grace, S.V., wrapped up the day with her signature Australian accent and a call for all to allow themselves to be loved by God, for being loved by him is the ultimate truth of who we have been created to be. 

Still Growing: A quick glance around the conference halls told a story of sisterhood. From teen girls rummaging through Catholic jewelry to religious orders brought in for the Vocation Corner witnessing to life as brides of Christ, it was a day that embodied the embrace of the Visitation.

This conference welcomed a record number of young women, providing hope for even more growth as the new location at the Oklahoma City Convention Center allows for higher numbers while keeping a comfortable space. The event returns to the OKC Convention Center Feb. 21. Early-bird registration opens on Oct. 1, the feast day of the conference’s patron saint, Saint Therese of Lisieux.

Quotable: “No need to be the greatest or most talented, all (God) is asking is to accept love and be loved.” – Conference attendee. 

The Oklahoma Catholic Women’s Conference was held March 29 at the Oklahoma City Convention Center. Photos Chris Porter/Sooner Catholic.