Women's Ministries Consultation Gathers Ideas
Episcopal News Service. January 22, 2001 [2001-11]
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.