VALLEY FORGE, PA (ABNS 11/21/07) - Rev. Rothangliani Chhangte, former director of Ecumenical Formation for American Baptist Churches USA (ABCUSA), and Rev. Mary Mild, former director of American Baptist Personnel Services for National Ministries (NM), were among twenty-four women recognized for work in the ecumenical movement by the National Council of Churches (NCC) at their General Assembly in Woodbridge, N.J., Nov. 6-8.
Each year, the Justice for Women Work Group of the NCC sponsors a Women's Caucus Lunch open to all interested delegates and visitors at the General Assembly. This year the lunch was dedicated to Claire Randall, the first female General Secretary of the NCC, who passed away in September and also recognized the thirty-year anniversary of the Work Group.
At the lunch, Chhangte and Mild were honored for their work in the field of ecumenism and service on the Justice for Women Work Group.
"It brings me great pleasure to see Rothang's work recognized by the National Council of Churches in this way," said Rev. A. Roy Medley, ABCUSA general secretary. "Her dedication to the ecumenical movement and her important role on the Central Committee of the World Council of Churches reflect great credit upon herself and all American Baptists, whom she represents."
Dr. Aidsand F. Wright-Riggins III, executive director for NM, said, "We are very pleased about this national recognition of Rev. Mild's ministry. She is one of ABCUSA's pioneers, advocating for and serving women and the church. Her remarkable ministry journey includes exemplary service as both a lay person and clergy professional. It was my pleasure to join with many other American Baptists at the luncheon where Mary Mild was counted among the roll call of outstanding women ecumenical leaders. She is deserving of this honor."
The NCC also took the opportunity at the lunch to announce the new Claire Randall Fund in Women's Development which will support Ecumenical Justice for Women programs, Leadership Development for Women of Diverse Traditions, the full participation of lay and clergy women in the ecumenical community and production of resources for women's ministry.
ABCUSA is an active member of the NCC, an ecumenical partnership of 35 of America's Orthodox, Protestant, Anglican, historic African American and traditional peace churches.
Andrew C. Jayne American Baptist Churches, USA Mission Resource Development http://www.abc-usa.org/