It’s Women’s History Month! In honor of a month spent celebrating women, I want to dedicate some internet space to the historically contentious topic of women in ministry. Instead of adding to the tension, though, I would rather spend our time considering the vital role of women in the life of the church ministry.
In the big picture of church life, no one can deny the indispensable role that women play. Far beyond merely attending services, women bring an irreplaceable richness to the ministry, contributing in a myriad of ways. Today, we're diving into five compelling reasons why churches can not only welcome but also thrive with the active participation of women.
By embracing the active involvement of women in church ministry, we not only honor their unique gifts and perspectives but also reflect the imago dei in the Body of Christ.
1. Women Attend Church – And Bring Their Families.
Let's start with the basics. Women are the backbone of many congregations. From dragging sleepy kids out of bed to organizing everyone's Sunday best wardrobe, women often take the lead in making sure the whole family gets to church.
Their commitment creates a ripple effect, fostering community within the church family. Churches thrive on the dedication of women who show up week after week. It's often women who first see the long-term importance of prioritizing spiritual growth for themselves and their families.
2. Women Offer a Unique Perspective.
Women see things from a different lens, and that's a good thing! Our life experiences and interaction with the world differ from that of our male counterparts. In the collaborative effort of ministry, having diverse perspectives is crucial. Women bring sensitivity, intuition, and empathy that can enhance decision-making and foster a more holistic understanding of the needs of the congregation.
Women typically have a deep grasp of the needs and perspectives of the weak and marginalized—some of the most important people the church is trying to reach. Asking for women's insights on policies and procedures, ministry structures, teaching components, and communication strategies in ministry will allow your church to welcome and protect the most vulnerable in our communities. Ask them to be the mouthpiece in some of your church’s communications, and your church will be able to reach more people for Jesus.
3. Leadership Gifts Abound in Women.
Regardless of your theological stance, God has equipped women with leadership qualities to fulfill within the life of the church. Women are endowed with unique leadership gifts – whether it's the ability to empathize, design, inspire, or organize. Make sure you recognize, leverage, and celebrate these gifts in positions of influence within the church. The body of Christ is richer when both men and women are actively involved in and give voice to leadership roles.
“As we recognize, celebrate, and leverage the immense contributions women bring to the church, we foster a community that thrives on the collaboration of all its members. ”
4. Women Get Things Done.
Let's face it; women have a knack for getting things done efficiently. Whether it's organizing events, managing volunteers, or overseeing community outreach programs, women have a reputation for turning visions into reality. Their hands-on approach is an invaluable asset to the church's operational success, and we thank the Lord that they are willing, able, and passionate about being the hands and feet of Christ.
5. Jesus Gave a Voice to Women.
Every voice in the congregation adds a layer to the choir of worship, prayer, and decision-making. By actively engaging women in conversations about theology, mission, and strategy, the church ensures a more complete and representative understanding of the diverse perspectives within the congregation.
Jesus honored and valued women, which spoke strongly to a culture that mostly disregarded them. Following Jesus’s example of inspiring and equipping women to do God’s work in their families, communities, and the church takes extra effort and care, but the result is palpable. It’s a notable and worthwhile investment to seek out women’s voices and perspectives, to challenge them, and to encourage them to use their gifts to honor and glorify God. Your church leadership will grow stronger and more effective because of the investment.
By embracing the active involvement of women in church ministry, we not only honor their unique gifts and perspectives but also display how the body of Christ and imago dei can be reflected to the world. As we recognize, celebrate, and leverage the immense contributions women bring to the church, we foster a community that thrives on the collaboration of all its members. After all, the church is a family, and every family member has a vital role to play.
In every context and community, a healthy church seeks to champion every member and develop their God-given gifts to glorify God and edify His church. Brothers and sisters in Christ working together on a mission to worship God and build His Kingdom is a glorious sight to behold.
Melody Brackett is UBA's administrative assistant and communications specialist. She has served in vocational ministry as both a worship leader and women’s ministry leader for over a decade and holds a Masters of Church Music degree from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary.
She ministers alongside her husband, Zach, the pastor of LifeBrook Church in Houston, and their three kids.
Photo provided by Houston's First Baptist Church
By reclaiming the the biblical understanding of brothers and sisters in Christ, the church can be a picture of healthy community in a relationally confused world.