Jubilee Voices

This past Thursday and Friday, Scarlett and I joined clergy women from across the country at Columbia College to celebrate Methodism’s 50th anniversary of full clergy rights for women. We remembered the women, especially those who endured rejection and great obstacles to fulfill their calls, who have made our personal ministries possible. It was good to hear Bishop Minerva Carcano say that gender is not an issue when the Council of Bishops meet. All voices at the table are heard. An outspoken advocate for social justice issues, the Bishop reminded us that we too are called to take risks if we are to offer a liberating God to others.

A variety of workshops gave us an opportunity to explore topics that are important to our journey as a clergywoman. I especially enjoyed “Women’s Ways of Knowing, Learning and Leading” presented by Drs. Burk and Fowler of Columbia College. By looking at various leadership theories and the culture that surrounds men and women, important understandings of different leadership styles was examined. The challenge for each of us is to define our style and use it effectively.

Our worship experiences were filled with different voices representative of women in ministry. From the exuberant preaching of Telley Gadsen to the poignant and humorous storytelling of Rosemary Brown, the Word was declared. I especially appreciated the meditation and music of the Taize service. Each worship service offered an opportunity for personal reflection of where I had been and where I am going. I feel renewed in my call to ministry.