wfn.org | Episcopal Women's ministries consultation gathers ideas

[ENS@ecunet.org]

2001-11

http://www.ecusa.anglican.org/ens
jnunley@dfms.org

Women's ministries consultation gathers ideas

by Jan Nunley

     (ENS) Some fifty representatives of women's organizations and ministries 
in the Episcopal Church gathered January 16-17 for a consultation at the 
Episcopal Church Center to gather information and ideas about how national 
mission programs and structures can encourage ministry by and for women. The 
meeting was called by Presiding Bishop Frank Griswold.

     In comments solicited before the meeting, many of the participants noted 
that women in the Episcopal Church face situations of great paradox and 
contradiction: included and excluded from decision-making systems; recognized 
as bishops in some areas and not recognized as priests in others; a numerical 
majority in most structures of the church, while men retain the majority of 
the power. Many reported support for their ministries at the diocesan, 
provincial and national levels that was lacking in their own local 
congregations--but acknowledged that their values continue to be formed at 
the local level. "The 'glass ceiling' is real," reported the meeting's 
facilitator, consultant Susy Miller. "It is still big news for a woman to be 
named a CEO, a cathedral dean, a bishop, even a rector! Equal pay for equal 
work is not a reality."

     Participants recommended a national structure that would provide 
resources and referrals; promote visibility and awareness among and about 
women in the church; operate as a clearinghouse for information and actions; 
create links between women's ministry efforts and other structures in the 
Episcopal Church, the ecumenical environment, and the global arena; and 
promote recognition, inclusion, and development of women's ministries 
throughout the church.

     Participants also expressed urgency about appointing a permanent staff 
member for women's ministries, and Griswold assured them that he is 
"absolutely committed" to a full-time women's ministries officer at the 
Church Center.

     Keeping women who do not belong to the "traditional organizations," 
especially young adults, was raised as an important consideration, as was 
including women in conservative and traditionalist groups. Following the 
consultation, another meeting is planned for the heads of women's groups in 
the church to discuss diversity, self-care, and ways in which the national 
church staff can support their work.

--The Rev. Jan Nunley is deputy director of the Episcopal Church's Office of 
News and Information.