Women In Ministry

One of the many reasons we stepped away from the Roman Catholic Church was the church's inability to see the inherent value of women in active and engaging ministry. Female acolytes are something I remember beginning as a child. I remember when women and girls were not part of the service as well. And I know someone out there is saying, "but what about nuns?" Yes, nuns have been and are a vital force within the church, but their scope is limited and there is a finite number of ways women can serve within the church. And yes, the opportunity for female laity exists, but again, it is limited.

An incredibly appealing part of The Episcopal Church (TEC) was their full inclusion and growing number of women as priests, deacons, lay ministers, etc. As a mother to four children who identify (at least for the time being) as female I wanted to them to see, and feel, and explore their places within the Church. I wanted them to see women leading services. I wanted them to see women engaging in all parts of the Church. I wanted them to know and understand that there are no limits for them within the walls of our chosen denomination. As a former Roman Catholic (RC) this was incredibly powerful not only a mother but as a women, for my own formation.

I am so blessed to have strong female clergy role models for our girls here at seminary. Corrie, Laura, Luz, Lucy, Christine, Camie, Lauren, Reagan, Jane, Katherine, and all the others that have come before and will come after, know that your presence gives little girls the understanding that their faith can grow and change and that if they feel so called, they too can lead. My heart is full. Thank you.