Celebrating Women in Ministry: Past and Present

Since ancient times, women have served as essential figures in evangelizing the message of the Gospel while directing communities and influencing theological discourse. The history of women in ministry demonstrates a powerful legacy that spans from biblical times to the present day despite their contributions often being overlooked or challenged. The growing leadership roles women occupy within evolving churches and denominations represent the Holy Spirit’s movement as they break barriers and establish new service opportunities.

The article examines how women have influenced ministry throughout history by acknowledging trailblazers who set the stage and recognizing today’s women who continue to shape church practices. Our examination will cover the obstacles they encountered as well as their achievements in advancing inclusivity within ministry work.

In 1873, Union Biblical Seminary (now United) was among the first seminaries in the United States to welcome female students. United Theological Seminary continues that legacy today by equipping women to faithfully answer God’s call to ministry in the church and in the world. United’s theological education alongside spiritual formation and faith community enable women to confidently accept their call to lead. Women persist in transforming both church dynamics and global perspectives for Christ through their work in the pulpit, mission fields, chaplaincy roles, and beyond.

 

Historical Context: Women Pioneers in Ministry 

Throughout history women broke through societal barriers to respond to their divine ministry calling. Various women have become essential figures in preaching and teaching while promoting justice despite operating under restrictive conditions. The persistent faith of these women transformed theological discussions and established a pathway for subsequent female church leaders.

The following figures stand out as key influential early pioneers at United and the EUB Church:

• Ella Niswonger, who graduated in 1887 from Union Biblical Seminary (now United), was the first woman ordained with full clergy rights after the General Conference of the United Brethren in Christ approved the ordination of women in 1889. Rev. Niswonger was also the first woman elected as a clergy delegate to the UB General Conference in 1901, representing the Central Illinois Conference.
• Vera Blinn was the National Secretary of the UB Otterbein Guild (young women), editor of the Women’s Evangel magazine, and General Secretary of the Women’s Missionary Society. Following her premature death at age 31, the society established The Vera Blinn Chair of Missions at Bonebrake Theological Seminary (now United) in her honor. The Vera Blinn Chair of Missions was the first theological chair named after a woman.
• Harriet L. Miller began her career teaching Christian education at United Theological Seminary in 1956 when she became the first woman on the faculty. A native of Minnesota, she taught in the public school system and served as director of Christian education in local church, conference, and in city and state councils of churches before coming to United. 
• Wendy Deichmann was the first woman president at United (2008-2016) and was named president emerita in 2021. She is currently the Director of the Center for EUB Heritage and Professor of History and Theology.

 

The Fight for Recognition 

Throughout church history women encountered institutional obstacles which stopped them from occupying formal leadership positions. Women were barred from preaching or administering sacraments by various denominations which instead assigned them to educational and charitable duties. The development of religious movements led to increased awareness and appreciation of women’s roles and achievements.

The fight for women’s ordination and leadership has several significant milestones worth noting.

Evangelical and Holiness movements during the 19th century enabled women to assume preaching and leadership positions within the Salvation Army and Methodist traditions. The Assemblies of God and similar Pentecostal denominations ordained women based on their belief in the Holy Spirit’s power to enable all believers to serve in ministry roles.

During the mid-to-late 20th century changes within theology combined with social movements caused major Protestant denominations like the United Methodist Church, Presbyterian Church (USA), and Evangelical Lutheran Church in America to begin ordaining women for pastoral and episcopal roles.

 

Denominational Roles in Paving the Way 

Each Christian tradition has contributed distinctively to the recognition and extension of women’s leadership roles.

Pentecostal and Holiness Movements: Early Pentecostal and Holiness movements endorsed women preachers based on Acts 2:17 which states “God declares in the last days I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy.” 

Mainline Protestant Churches: The transition toward accepting women as pastors unfolded progressively and now women are ordained into all tiers of leadership in many mainline denominations

Roman Catholic and Orthodox Churches: These traditions have yet to ordain women as priests but they acknowledge women’s leadership roles in teaching as well as theological scholarship.

Today’s women in ministry build upon the foundational work of pioneering women who expanded service possibilities for women in Christ’s name.

 

Women Leading in Ministry Today 

Women now hold leadership positions as pastors, bishops, and theologians while serving as chaplains and missionaries in diverse Christian denominations. Through their leadership women are transforming both local congregations and international movements which shows God’s ongoing mission to prepare women for important positions in the church.

Today’s ministry landscape features prominent female leaders such as:

• Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, a 1993 United graduate, stands as the first female bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church and she has set a precedent for women in church leadership roles.
• Dr. Cheryl Bridges Johns functions as both a Pentecostal scholar and former president of the Society for Pentecostal Studies while she works towards the advancement of theological education for women and supports women’s empowerment in ministry roles.
• Rev. Rev. Dr. Cynthia Hale, a 1991 United graduate, founded the Women in Ministry Conference to support and celebrate women leaders, and she was appointed by President Barack Obama to serve on the President’s Commission on White House Fellowships. 

Women who serve in ministry today fulfill roles that include preaching and teaching while leading congregations and conducting missions and social justice advocacy as well as influencing theological ideas. The active participation of women in ministry shows that God calls people regardless of their gender.

 

Challenges Faced by Women in Ministry 

Women serving in ministry roles still face numerous challenges despite noteworthy advancements.

Traditional interpretations of biblical texts cause some religious groups to deny women pastoral leadership positions.

Female pastors face limited leadership roles because they frequently lead smaller congregations or serve as associates rather than assuming senior positions within denominations that ordain women.

Women in ministry experience work-life balance challenges similar to other professionals as they must find equilibrium between family duties and leadership obligations while maintaining their own well-being.

Women successfully address these challenges by engaging in mentorship programs, pursuing theological education, participating in advocacy work, and sustaining their faith. The collaboration between support networks, seminaries and church leaders is aimed at expanding service opportunities for women to fulfill their calling.

 

United Theological Seminary: A Place for Women in Ministry 

United Theological Seminary provides resources and training to empower women in ministry roles.

United ensures women from diverse backgrounds feel encouraged to undertake theological education and assume leadership roles in an inclusive learning environment.

United’s programs prepare women to serve in church settings as well as other non-traditional ministry positions.

United creates partnerships between women in ministry through its mentorship programs and by providing access to essential resources and community support. 

 

United Empowers Women Through Theological Education 

At United Theological Seminary, women receive not just a warm welcome into ministry but also training, support and empowerment to lead. United Theological Seminary prepares women to confidently pursue their divine callings through its academic programs and supportive community while nurturing their spiritual growth.

United provides a full theological education to women who aspire to become pastors, chaplains, educators, missionaries, and community leaders. The seminary offers: 

• Degree programs from the Master of Divinity to the Doctor of Ministry that integrate theological knowledge with practical ministry abilities.
• Online and hybrid courses, which enable students to manage their education alongside family duties and ministry work commitments.
• A learning space that cultivates spiritual growth alongside leadership development and the establishment of enduring bonds with mentors and peers.

 

Stories of Women in Ministry at United 

United Theological Seminary women graduates have made significant contributions to both their communities and church settings. The seminary proves its dedication to training women for ministry leadership through their stories.

Kimberly Davis (DMin ’20) felt that, “The breadth and depth of the educational experience was more than I could have imagined. I grew exponentially. I grew spiritually. I learned about myself and made lifelong friendships along the way.”

Heather Husted (MDin ‘19) agreed that United expanded her horizons saying, “I was instructed, encouraged, challenged and held accountable to push beyond my worldview and step outside of my own lived experience. I realized truths about who I was and who I am called to be I didn’t even know to look for, and I’m fully convinced I wouldn’t have found anywhere but United.”

For Cara Watkins, United was a gateway to increased spirituality, “United is where I grew into the spiritual leader God has called me to be. I leave United with so much love and confidence that I am following the path that God has created for me,” she enthused.

 

A Commitment to Practical and Spiritual Formation 

Theological education at United aims to transform students beyond mere acquisition of knowledge. The seminary provides: 

• Field education and leadership training so students gain real-world ministry skills.
• Participation in formation groups helps students develop stronger faith and wisdom while seeking their ministry path alongside prayer and mentoring support.
• Faculty members, United alumni/ae, and students develop a reliable support system that guides and motivates women pursuing ministry careers.

United Theological Seminary remains dedicated to theological education and spiritual formation to develop women who will lead and serve as future Christian leaders and inspire upcoming generations.

 

Recognizing the heritage and potential of women in ministry

Women in ministry demonstrate their journey through unwavering faith and determination that leads to profound transformation. Women have served as essential figures in advancing the Gospel and serving communities since the days of early pioneers through to today’s global church leaders.

Women have demonstrated through their enduring faith over time that God’s calling extends beyond gender restrictions. Women serve as pastors and theologians while functioning as chaplains and missionaries to lead churches and communities using their wisdom and compassion alongside innovative approaches. As new opportunities arise, women will increasingly respond to God’s calling to ministry because their future looks promising.

Supporting Women in Their Call to Ministry 

Women in ministry journey together with the support of others. United Theological Seminary provides education along with mentorship and a strong faith community to support women in ministry. United continues to: 

• Equip women through rigorous theological training 
• Support their spiritual and leadership development 
• Develop multiple pathways that enable them to lead and serve across different ministry environments

 

Join the Movement: Take Your Next Step 

Women called to ministry or those who wish to support female leadership should act now to make their impact. Discover United Theological Seminary programs and connect with our community to launch your ministry journey today.

Connect with our seminary by visiting our website to schedule a visit or submitting your application to join our program which empowers women for impactful leadership both within the church and in other areas.