Called by God

John 20:17-18 Jesus said to her, “go to my brothers and say to them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’ ” Mary Magdalene went and announced to the disciples, “I have seen the Lord,” and she told them that he had said these things to her.

Summary: Throughout Scripture, God calls women and men alike to lead, teach, preach, and serve, and the Episcopal Church continues that biblical tradition today.

Dear Faithful,

This week, the Southern Baptist Convention voted by nearly 75% to advance a constitutional amendment that would formally exclude churches that affirm women serving as pastors. Whenever a major Christian denomination makes a decision like this, many people naturally ask: What does the Bible actually say about women in ministry?

As I read Scripture, I see a God who consistently calls people based on giftedness, faithfulness, and vocation rather than gender.

The Bible is filled with women who exercised spiritual leadership. Miriam was a prophet who helped lead Israel. Deborah served as both judge and leader of God's people. Huldah was a prophet consulted by kings and priests. In the New Testament, Mary Magdalene became the first witness to the Resurrection and was sent to proclaim the Good News to the disciples. Priscilla taught Christian doctrine alongside her husband. Phoebe served as a deacon in the early church.

Some passages appear to limit women's leadership, particularly in certain first-century contexts. Yet when we step back and look at the larger story of Scripture, we see God repeatedly empowering women to speak, teach, lead, and proclaim God's word. The trajectory of the Gospel moves toward greater inclusion, not less.

The Episcopal Church ordains women because we believe the Holy Spirit continues to call women and men alike into every order of ministry. We do not see leadership in the Church as a privilege reserved for some, but as a calling from God discerned within the community of faith.

I am grateful to serve in a church where girls can grow up seeing women preach, celebrate the Eucharist, lead congregations, and answer God's call without limitation. When we affirm the gifts of all God's people, the whole Church is strengthened.

The question is not whether God calls women. Scripture clearly shows that God does. The question is whether we will recognize and support the gifts God has already given.

May you continue to use your gifts to serve God,

Pastor Anny+

Prayer Gracious God, help us to recognize your image and your calling in every person. Give us eyes to see the gifts you have placed among us and courage to support all whom you call into ministry. Amen.