Commission on Women in Ministry Report to the General Board of The African Methodist Episcopal Church

Transcription

1 Commission on Women in Ministry Report to the General Board of The African Methodist Episcopal Church Bishop McKinley Young, Senior Bishop Bishop Reginald T. Jackson, President of the Council of Bishops, Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, President of the General Board Bishop E Anne Henning Byfield, Commission on Women in Ministry, Chairperson Rev. Dr. Erika D. Crawford, Connectional President Women in Ministry

2 Commission on Women In Ministry Bishop E. Anne Henning Byfield, Chairperson Commission Members 1 st District: Presiding Elder Jocelyn Hart Lovelace 2 nd District: Presiding Elder Ernest Montague 3 rd District: Ms. Kimberly Brooks 4 th District: Ms. Betty Tuggle 5 th District: Rev. Fran Cary 6 th District: Rev. Jonetta Prater 7 th District: Ms. Vergie Tennison 8 th District: Ms. Darlene Gordon 9 th District: Rev. Albert Hyche 10 th District: Miss Kendra Hill-Daughton 11 th District: Bro. Charlie Nichols 12 th District: Rev. Marcelle Fields 13 th District: Rev. Troy Thomas 14 th District: Rev. Margaret Fadehan 15 th District: Bro. Theodore Messiah 16 th District: Rev. Carlene Sobers 17 th District: Rev. Moses Achola 18 th District: Ms. Beatrice Mutokoa 19 th District: Sis. Thumekile Mthanti 20 th District: Presiding Elder Rosetta Swinton *No At-Large Members* 2 P a g e / A M E / W I M G e n e r a l B o a r d R e p o r t

3 Connectional Women In Ministry Executive Board Rev. Dr. Erika D. Crawford, President Rev. Ammie Davis, First Vice President Rev. Joelynn T. Stokes, Second Vice President Rev. Dr. Monica L. Spencer, Third Vice President Rev. Louise Jackson, General Secretary Rev. Garland Higgins, Communications Secretary Rev. Tyronda Howse Burgess, Financial Secretary Rev. Angelique Mason, Treasurer Rev. Pamela Rivera, Worship Director Rev. Dr. Janie Dowdy-Dandridge, Herstoriographer Rev. Nomalungelo Pamella Vena, Central/Southern Africa Coordinator Connectional Consultants Rev. Sandra Smith Blair Rev. Teresa L. Fry Brown, Ph. D. Rev. Jacquelyn Grant Collier, Ph.D. Chaplain Benita Livingston Rev. Brenda Payne, Presiding Elder 3 P a g e / A M E / W I M G e n e r a l B o a r d R e p o r t

4 Greetings from the Chair of the Commission on Women in Ministry Greeting to our Bishops, General Officers, Connectional Officers, Presidents and Deans of Universities, Seminaries and Schools, and Episcopal District General Board Members. The following report represents the excellence, dedicated commitment, productivity and creativity of the Women in Ministry led by Rev. Dr. Erika Crawford. E. Anne Henning Byfield Chair of the Commission on Women In Ministry Presiding Prelate, 16 th Episcopal District African Methodist Episcopal Church The work demonstrates a consistent approach to developing a stronger church by developing stronger women in ministry and utilization of women at every level of the church. While exceptional progress has been made at diverse levels of the church, we still have to assure the fulfillment of a God-given mandate for the AME Church. I salute the wonderful team for the work they have done so that women are Standing United, Moving Forward and with the Church, Stronger together. Anchored In Christ, E. Anne Henning Byfield E. Anne Henning Byfield, Chair If you met a woman who made bricks without straw, preached after changing the baby and people were saved; cooked a meal for bible study, held a business meeting and shared multi-level visionary plan, which the people approved with financial commitments; led people in responding to their community, demanding justice similar to Zelophehad s daughters, went to an exercise class, finished a manuscript, gave him/her a finished report, posted on social media before going to sleep, and started all over again the next day; You have met a member of the African Methodist Episcopal Church Women in Ministry. -annehenningbyfield 4 P a g e

5 Greetings from Our Connectional President The Lord Be Praised! I am thankful for the opportunity to make my second report as Connectional President of AME/WIM. It is a joy to be counted among the mighty clergywomen in the AME Church and I am humbled by the awesome responsibility of leading and advocating for the more than 4000 women who are gladly serving the Lord in a ministerial capacity throughout the AME Church. The AME Church has been the home of Christian women for more than 200 years. Many have served the Lord faithfully from the pews since the 1787 walkout at 6 th and Lombard; and others have stood behind sacred desks since them1819 licensing of the now, Rev. Jarena Lee. We continue to believe that at its heart the AME Church is a Social Justice Church that holds fast to a Liberating Faith and continues to look for ways to encourage, support and elevate the gifts, purpose and call of women in the AME Church. AME/WIM remains steadfastly committed to the work of the 1977 delegation of clergywomen, who met with the Council of Bishops in Atlantic City, NJ to voice concerns related to clergywomen in the ministry. We want to thank our Commission Chair, Bishop E. Anne Henning Byfield, for her continued support and insight into ways for us to respectfully challenge the church to live out its proclamation of justice in the church in relation to its daughters. Our work is far from done, and we remain hopeful that progress will not be retarded by politics and that politics will not take precedence over good public policy. Like the daughters of Zelophehad, we remain before our beloved Zion proclaiming what the Lord has declared, The daughters are right in what they are saying, as we look for our inheritance among our brothers and our father s brothers. We thank you for the opportunity to share our good works. Rev. Dr. Erika D. Crawford Rev. Dr. Erika D. Crawford, President 5 P a g e

6 Women in Ministry African Methodist Episcopal Women In Ministry (AME/WIM) is the official professional organization for women pursuing excellence in ministry in the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church. AME/WIM is an international organization serving the 20 Episcopal Districts of the AME Church in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean and the continents of Africa, Asia, South America and Europe. AME/WIM is led by an Executive Board elected by the active membership - women preachers from across the Connectional AME Church. AME/WIM currently serves, supports and provides encouragement to more than four thousand women serving in ministerial capacities at every level throughout the African Methodist Episcopal Church. AME Church Quadrennial Theme The African Methodist Episcopal Church: A Social Justice and Liberating Faith Political Justice (2016); Criminal Justice (2017); Environmental Justice (2018); Economic Justice (2019) And what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God? Micah 6:8 (NASB) AME/WIM Quadrennial Theme In September of 2016 the Executive Board of AME/WIM intentionally assessed the state of Women In Ministry in the AME Church by reviewing the commissioning mission, purpose and objectives of AME/WIM. In doing so, the board gave prayerful thought and consideration to the denominations Quadrennial Theme - The African Methodist Episcopal Church: A Social Justice and Liberating Faith. Trusting in the stated and inferred commitment of the AME Church to justice, and believing that the pursuit of justice includes Gender Justice, Connectional AME/WIM established the Quadrennial theme: Standing United, Moving Forward, Stronger Together based on Numbers 27:6-7 (NRSV) 6 And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying: 7 The daughters of Zelophehad [the women] are right in what they are saying; you shall indeed let them possess an inheritance among their father s brothers and pass the inheritance of their father on to them. About Our Theme #Standing United AME/WIM is unified and focused on empowering and encouraging WIM across the connection. #Moving Forward AME/WIM is intentional about focusing on the future of our church, we are faith forward. We belong to a new generation and we are focused on exercising our gifts, fulfilling our purpose, individually and collectively, in possessing the promises of God. #Stronger Together AME/WIM pursues justice for all. All WIM are equally valued, and we seek to have everyone share equitably in the distribution of power, knowledge, resources and access to leadership. 6 P a g e

7 About The Text: The story of Zelophehad s daughters is one of encouragement, empowerment, and engagement. The Bible mentions Zelophehad's daughters by name five times and gives legitimacy to their pursuit of justice Gender Justice. Numbers 26:33; 27:1-7; 36:1-12; Joshua 17:1-6; and 1 Chronicles 7: AME/WIM Quadrennial Goals Realizing that there are times when we must go back before we can go forward, the Quadrennial Goals of Connectional AME/WIM take us back to the original mission, purpose and bylaws of AME/WIM as adopted by the 44 th Session of The General Conference (1992) which emboldened and empowered AME/WIM to: Recognize and support women in ministry as an integral part of the AME Church. Raise the consciousness of the A.M.E. Church on women's issues. Address the issue of sexism in the A.M.E. Church. Address issues of opportunities for women in ministry in the A.M.E. Church. Support women in the pastoral ministry. Encourage academic training for ministry. Support and provide assistance and outreach to women in ministry in the Global Districts. Compile a complete and accurate record of all women in ministry in the A.M.E Church. Thus, during the quadrennial our focus is: Unity Preparation Relationships Gender Justice We have established the following as our fivefold Quadrennial Goals, to: 7 P a g e

8 Meetings & Events Our President, Rev. Dr. Erika D. Crawford, met with the Council of Bishops in January 2018 to discuss the state of Women in Ministry in the AME Church. Her presentation provided statistics and history of WIM, with hopes that the Council of Bishops will intentionally work towards gender justice and equity in the church. The AME/WIM Executive Board meets monthly via teleconference. o As needed the board meets face to face for executive sessions, as we did in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina in December of The AME/WIM Executive Board meets monthly via teleconference with Episcopal District Presidents. o Due to time differences and limited technology, we continue to have challenges in maintaining regular contact with our sisters in the global districts. We are planning a Global WIM Conference this quadrennial. We look with anticipation towards August 7-11, 2018 as we prepare for our 10th Quadrennial Conference. Bishop Harry L. Seawright and Rev. Sherita Seawright have invited us to the 9 th Episcopal District and we have accepted with great thanksgiving. Planning is underway, and we extend an invitation to the entire connectional church to come and share this experience with the Women in ministry as we look for a mighty move of God in the Daniel Payne Community Plaza in Birmingham, AL. o The Conference is our intentional effort to be inclusive of Ordained Supervisors, Lay and clergymen. In February of 2019, we will sponsor our 1 st Global Quadrennial Conference. This conference will be in conjunction with the CED meeting in South Africa and is open to all. Actions & Activities 10 th Quadrennial Conference Under the leadership of the Reverend Ammie L Davis, Connectional AME WIM First Vice President, AME WIM has organized an executive planning team with the 9th Episcopal District WIM and committee liaisons for the planning and organizing of the 10th AME WIM Quadrennial Conference in Birmingham, Alabama. The initial planning meeting was held March 31, 2017 at Daniel Payne Community Plaza in Birmingham, Alabama. The executive planning team has monthly AME WIM 10 th Quadrennial Planning Meeting. Reverend Deborah Peppers, 9th Episcopal District President, recommended committee chairs from the 9 th Episcopal District WIM to work with the executive planning team in conjunction with the AME WIM. The executive planning team members are: Supervisor Seawright Reverend Deborah Peppers Dr. Tish Watford Reverend Ammie L. Davis Reverend Jermaine Richardson Reverend Dr. Valdes Snipes-Bennett (Your words) We've worked enthusiastically, intentionally and diligently to be inclusive and bold in our choices. We did this as a conscious effort with hopes of attracting new WIM and communicating our understanding that to move forward we need to work together as a body of believers, clergy, lay, men and women. Monday, August 6, 2018, we will be at the Daniel Payne Community Plaza, 1500 Daniel Payne Dr, Birmingham, AL 35214, for The SoulFunny Concert & Comedy Show only from 4:30 pm - 9 pm. The conference officially opens on Tuesday, August 7, Tuesday through Friday, August 7-10, we will be at the Sheraton Birmingham, 2101 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd N, Birmingham, AL Bylaws & Legislation Under the leadership of Rev. Joelynn T. Stokes, Esq., Connectional 2 nd Vice President, the Connectional AME/WIM Legislation Committee has enlisted the help of clergy and lay, male and female, to participate in a comprehensive 8 P a g e

9 review of the AME Doctrine and Discipline. Persons from across the connection have volunteered to join with AME/WIM, representing most Episcopal Districts. To accomplish the review, the following Sub-Committees have been established: 1) WIM By-Laws, 2) General Editing 3) Gender Neutral/Inclusive Language 4) Conflicting Provisions, and 5) Antiquated/Obsolete Provisions. The AME/WIM Legislation Committee is eager and excited to begin its work. If a sub-committee theme is of interest, there is still time to join. Contact Rev. Joelynn at joelynn.stokes@amewim.org. In addition to her Legislative work, Rev. Joelynn has supported and encouraged AME/WIM across the connection, traveling to Kansas City, MO, for the 5 th Episcopal District Jarena Lee Luncheon hosted by Rev. Dr. Karla Cooper and Rev. Dr. Brenda Hayes. She also traveled to Port Elizabeth, South Africa where she taught and preached for the 15 th Episcopal District WMS & WIM Leadership Institute hosted by Bishop and Supervisor Daniels and Presiding Elder Betty Schroder. MyStoryHerstory As the Connectional Herstoriographer for AME/WIM for the past year we have begun conversations with District and local conference herstoriographers to establish a Standing Committee to learn more about women who helped to shape the history of the church. Various Districts have participated in community projects displaying historical information and documenting historical data on African American Women in Ministry within their respective districts and conferences. The Connectional AME/WIM Her Story Is My Story Campaign has been an opportunity to recognize women in our great Zion who are women of destiny and excellence in their various areas of ministry and professions as we featured their biographies. During International Women s History Month, we prepared a resource guide for local churches that included Bible studies, Litanies, Sermons around the #MeToo/Times Up Movement and how/ways the local church can respond. In addition to the aforementioned, women were showcased who founded churches as well as churches who were named after them which were also highlighted in our Women s History Resource guide. We are providing some suggested Preaching Text, Resources for Sermons, Bible Studies, Meditations, Litanies, Workshops and a Bibliography for victims of sexual violence and survivors. In this document we are also addressing The Politics of Sexual Assault, The Silence of Violence Against Women as well as Strategies for Action, Healing and Wholeness which are included in this publication for your consideration to assist more effectively and strategically with victims, abusers and survivors of sexual assault and violence. We continue to search for AME/WIM herstory, looking to find the year, name of each clergywoman, and the name of the annual conference correlating to the following events as it pertains to the AME/WIM in the various conferences and districts. We would also like to identify churches founded by women and welcome pictures. Please send to Janie.Dandridge@amewim.org Ordination of the first clergywoman as a deacon Ordination of the first clergywoman as an elder Appointment of the first woman pastor Appointment of the first woman Presiding Elder Election of the first clergywoman General Officer Any and all Herstorical data as it relates to AME WIM Communication/Administration Monthly electronic newsletter Established a quarterly page in The Christian Recorder. 9 P a g e

10 Developing a Press Package Established a new website address and redesigned the page Created an electronic filing system of the business minutes of monthly WIM Connectional meetings, starting with the September transition meeting, the December 2016 General Board meeting and all special meetings. Created an electronic listing of all Connectional Officers, Consultants and Episcopal District Presidents, which includes their biographical information as well as all contact information. Created an electronic file that houses all of the President s meeting agendas for the Connectional Board and Episcopal Presidents meetings. The file also includes any attachments, along with any other special WIM correspondence. Evaluated the use of various electronic file-syncing and storage systems to begin the process of not only creating a system where documents can be shared for review and edit, creating a permanent house for the historical records of the Connectional AME/WIM. Membership, Recruitment and Care The Membership Standing Committee continues to develop strategies for identifying the needs of women in ministry, enhancing services to the membership and increasing participation in AME/WIM. Prior to the quadrennial election this committee shall prepare a list credentialed members for voting and nomination for office. This quadrennial, the Membership Standing Committee will address the following: Membership Support and Development Identification of the needs of WIM and the development of strategies and services to address those needs The increase in membership, participation and presence/visibility Strengthen our Connection and sisterhood by maintaining an accurate Connectional Roster Membership credentialing and eligibility determination Advocate around issues related to WIM WIM interested in the following sub-committees are asked to contact Dr. Spencer@ monica.spencer@ame.org: a. Each One Reach One Campaign; active WIM will recruit at least one other woman in ministry, as well as least one Associate Member, (male clergy or laypersons). The District with the greatest increase and the WIM with the most recruits will receive an award, prize or etc. (Sub-Committee: Membership and Recruitment) b. Milcah (Sister) Mentors, will match mentors with mentees to enhance their ministerial, professional, and personal life; as well as share personal experiences, suggest ministerial resources, and offer thoughts and ideas about ministry. Several districts already have working models in place and we hope to glean from what is already being done. (Sub-Committee: Milcah Mentor) c. The Tirzah Clearing House -Black Suit/Black Friday launched June 2017 at the General Board Meeting, in Los Angeles. The aim of the Clearing House is to provide an opportunity for women to share/exchange gently used items with our sisters. All items are donated, and women will be able to take what they need. The transport of all items to and from the meeting site is the sole responsibility of the giver or receiver. This will especially benefit our global sisters. All items not taken will be left with the District WIM Tirzah Coordinator for distribution. Rev. Cecelia Justice is the chair of this Sub-Committee. The Membership Committee has also begun to gather statistical data pertaining to the numbers of women in ministry, committee assignments, pastoral appointments and etc. As well as to begin to develop our eligibility roster for General Conference. Worship & Liturgy God calls believers to worship in spirit and in truth. In response to God s invitation and call, we must worship sacrificially, and freely give God unselfish and unlimited praise. 10 P a g e

11 This year we were encouraged to write and publish liturgies, meditations, hymns, poems, etc. We are thankful for the Episcopal Districts and members of AME/WIM who have embraced their gift of writing. We are grateful and excited for every published and unpublished work. Please continue to write and submit your works to the various AME publications, other publishers, and also to the Connectional AME/WIM so that those works can be shared on AME/WIM website and other places. Realizing that the Spirit of God utilizes every faculty of our hearts and minds to bring forth revelation to promote transformation, we continue to write. In 2018 Worship & Liturgy worked with the Connectional Herstoriographer on the Her Story Is My Story project for the 2018 Women s Month and provided sub-topics for sermons, Bible studies and other teaching opportunities that are in concert with the social climate of the #METOO movement. WIM throughout the Connection shared meditations, litanies, poems, prayers, benedictions, etc. WIM are encouraged to write and publish their works so that this world may see Christ as Lord and Savior and one another as God sees. 11 P a g e

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13 Connectional AME/WIM Statistical Data Contemporary Statistics Historical Statistics Comparison Of the 119 Bishops elected and consecrated in the AME Church, 1 has been clergywomen. This means 99.99% of Bishops elected and consecrated in the AME Church have been male clergy. (2000) Of the 138 Bishops elected and consecrated in the AME Church, 4 have been clergywomen. This means 97% of Bishops elected and consecrated in the AME Church have been male clergy. (2016) Out of the approximately 230 Presiding Elders currently serving approximately 32 are clergywomen. This means 87% of the active Presiding Elders are male clergy (2017) Out of the 3817 Pastors clergywomen represent an unknown number. Male clergy represent an unknown percent (2017) Out of the 51/56 Clergy General Board seats, 9 are held by clergywomen and 42/47 are held by clergymen. Male clergy represent 83%/84% (2016) Out of the approximately 744 General Conference Ministerial Delegates, approximately 142 are clergywomen. This means 81% of the General Conference Ministerial Delegates were male clergy. (2016) Out of the approximately 605 General Conference Ministerial Alternate Delegates, approximately 206 are clergywomen. This means 66% of the General Conference Ministerial Alternate Delegation were male clergy. (2016) Out of the 17 General Conference Ministerial Delegate seats for the Commission on Women In Ministry, 16 clergywomen were seated. This means 1% of the Commission Women In Ministry Committee were male clergy (2016) Out of the 20 General Conference Ministerial Delegate positions on the Revisions Committee, 5 clergywomen were seated. This means 75% of the Revisions Committee were male clergy. (2016) Out of the 42 General Conference Ministerial Delegate positions on the Episcopal Committee 2 clergywomen are seated. This means 95% of the Episcopal Committee were male clergy. (2016) Out of the approximately 157 Presiding Elders serving, approximately 2 were clergywomen. This means 97.5% of the active Presiding Elders were male clergy (1988) Out of 1652 Pastors 70 were clergywomen. This means male clergy represent 95% of Pastors (1988) Out of the 51/54 Clergy General Board seats, 2 were held by clergywomen and 49/52 were held by clergymen. Male clergy represent a 96%/96% (2000) Out of the approximately 917 General Conference Ministerial Delegates, approximately 54 were clergywomen. This means 95% of the General Conference Ministerial Delegates were male clergy. (2000) Data Unavailable Out of the 19 General Conference Ministerial Delegate seats for the Commission on Women In Ministry, 18 clergywomen were seated. This means 1% of the Women In Ministry Committee were male clergy (2000) Out of the 19 General Conference Ministerial Delegate positions on the Revisions Committee, 0 clergywomen were seated. This means 100% of the Revisions Committee were male clergy. (2000) Out of the 38 General Conference Ministerial Delegate positions on the Episcopal Committee 0 clergywomen were seated. This means 100% of the Episcopal Committee were male clergy. (2000) Over the course of 16 years, there has been an increase of 2.99% in clergywomen as Bishops Over the course of 29 years, there has been an increase of 10.5% clergywomen as Presiding Elders Comparative Information Unavailable Over the course of 16 years, there has been an increase of 13% clergywomen on the General Board Over the course of 29 years, there has been an increase of 10.5% clergywomen as General Conference Delegates. Comparative Information Unavailable Over the course of 16 years, there has been no percentage change Over the course of 16 years, there has been an increase of 25% clergywomen on the Revisions Committee. Over the course of 16 years, there has been an increase of 5% clergywomen on the Episcopal Committee ** Although at first glance many of the statistics represent an increase in the representation of clergywomen percentage-wise, it is important to note that the percentage increases do not accurately reflect or represent the increase in the number of women in ministry. 13 P a g e

14 Statistics According to the Episcopal District reports there are more than 4000 women serving in a ministerial office in AME Church. Total Number 1 s 2 nd 3 rd 5 th 6 th 4 th 7 th 8 th 9 th 10 th 11 th 12 th 13th 14 th 15 th 16 th 17 th 18 th 19 th 20 th Total Itinerant Elders N/A N/A N/A 27 N/A Itnerant Deacons N/A N/A N/A N/A 3 N/A Local Elders N/A N/A N/A 0 N/A N/A 645 Local Deacons N/A N/A N/A N/A 2 N/A N/A 321 Licensed Evangelists N/A 35 N/A N/A N/A 0 N/A N/A 217 Exhorters 6 18 N/A N/A 3 N/A N/A N/A 2 N/A 3 95 Licentiates N/A N/A 59 N/A N/A N/A 7 N/A Admitted 24 N/A N/A N/A 10 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A 2 N/A N/A 7 N/A N/A 62 superannuated 1 13 N/A 13 2 N/A N/A N/A 5 N/A ** Total Previously Reported Total *In cases where reports were not submitted, the statistics from 2016 were used. 14 P a g e

15 Adopted Commission on Women In Ministry Recommendations to The General Board Year Request/Recommendation Status 2017 That the General Board empower each WIM Commission Member to complete an introspective analysis of its Episcopal District s key leadership positions regarding female clergy and report same to the commission within 90 days. Ongoing We continue to be challenged in receiving information from Episcopal Districts and Annual 2017 That the General Board empower the Commission Members to encourage WIM leadership at the Presiding Elder District and Conference Coordinators level to work in collaboration with their respective Presiding Elders to prepare and provide workshops and training to assist congregations in fulfilling the church's intentional commitment to gender justice and equality The adoption of this policy/statement regarding the equality and the value of women: We, The African Methodist Episcopal Church, affirm that all men and women are created equal by God and therefore, entitled to value of personhood, parity in employment, equal distribution of responsibility and promotion in ministry. We, the African Methodist Episcopal Church, will work to eliminate gender-role stereotypes and discrimination in all aspects of voluntary and compensatory participation in the Church and society. Conferences Pending AME/WIM is preparing to meet with the Presiding Elders Council to discuss this project Completed This statement was adopted by the General Board December 2016 We, the African Methodist Episcopal Church, will champion economic parity and justice by affirming the right of women to equal treatment and placement in key leadership decision-making positions at all levels of our Church, our Institutions and our communities That the General Board urge our elected officials and government agencies to retain and enact legislation and policies that protect women against all forms of misogyny, violence and discrimination That the General Board recognize March as International Women s History Month and strongly encourage local churches to recognize and celebrate the work of women in our Zion That the General Board recommends to the 50th Quadrennial Session of the General Conference a resolution offered by AME / WIM to posthumously elect and ordain Jarena Lee, an itinerant elder in the African Methodist Episcopal Church That for the remainder of the Annual Conferences [in the quadrennial], the Annual Conferences be intentional with respect to parity and equity in the election of women as ministerial delegates. Ongoing We are unable to determine if General Board members followed through on this request. However, to date, there has been no public statement from the church regarding such an effort Ongoing The recommendation was adopted by the General Board in December AME/WIM continues to work and push for every local church to celebrate the theological, social, historical, and cultural significance of women. Completed A resolution was read conferring the honorary title of Rev on Jarena Lee Not Accomplished Clergywomen represented less than 20% of the Ministerial Delegation 15 P a g e

16 2015 Local Elders comprise approximately 60% of all women in ministry. We recommend that: (1) women who meet the age requirement be encouraged to pursue the itinerant track (2) local ministers and persons who serve as supply pastors, who are pastoring a congregation a year or more, should receive full benefits AME Women in Ministry recommends and wholeheartedly support the election of women to the Episcopacy in As we head toward the 50 th session of the General Conference to be held in Philadelphia, PA we support the letter of Dr. Jayme Coleman Williams, dated May 15, 2015, for the need of more women on the Bench of Bishops. The bench of Bishops should never be devoid of women. It is estimated that women in ministry throughout the Connection comprise 46% of all ministers and women comprise over 80-85% of the congregations of our Zion. We have five women running and six positions that are open for the election of Bishop in the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Parity and justice demand that women be given their rightful position and place on the Bench. It would truly be a tragedy if the African Methodist Episcopal Church in 2016, the 200 th anniversary of the establishment of the church, failed to elect women to the Episcopacy. God created us all male and female to do God s work That the AME Church be intentional about electing women for Episcopal Service in 2016 and appointing women to positions of leadership (in the delegation of the General Conference; on the General Board; and on District and Annual Conference Committees such as Board of Examiners, Board of Trustees, Ministerial Efficiency & Judiciary and Finance Committees) That AME WIM be included in the agenda of the Annual Conference and make a report to the Annual Conference on the activities of AME/WIM, inclusive of the Report Card and Census Data at the seat of the Annual Conference That the AME Church, through its Bishops and Presiding Elders, be intentional in considering the educational background and experience of all clergy, in particular women, as they make Pastoral assignments and recommendations for persons to serve: in the delegation to the General Conference; on the General Board; and on District and Annual Conference Committees such as Board of Examiners, Board of Trustees, Ministerial Efficiency & Judiciary & Finance committees. (Presently, women clergy are underrepresented in leadership.) 2012 That the AME Church, through its Bishops and Presiding Elders, be intentional about including women in ministry as worship participants, workshop presenters, teachers and trainers at Episcopal District, Annual Conference, Presiding Elder District conferences and events. (1) Ongoing We continue to be challenged with access to information, thus are unable measure the number local clergywomen vs itinerant clergywomen (2) Not Accomplished Completed One clergy was elected to the Episcopacy in 2016 The Right Reverend E. Anne Henning Byfield Completed One clergy was elected to the Episcopacy in 2016 The Right Reverend E. Anne Henning Byfield Ongoing We continue to be challenged with access to information, thus are unable measure the number local clergywomen vs itinerant clergywomen Ongoing Some Episcopal Districts have adjusted Annual Conference schedules to include AMEWIM along with the other component annual days Most Annual Conference still do not call for the report on Women In Ministry Ongoing Clergywomen continue to be underrepresented in every ministerial office in the AME Church Ongoing Clergywomen continue to be underrepresented 16 P a g e

17 African Methodist Episcopal Church Women in Ministry Episcopal District Reports This year AME/WIM worked with intentionality towards our stated vision and proposed goals. Consequently, Our Episcopal District Reports Focus on the following questions and thoughts: 1. How has the District embraced and promoted the Quadrennial Theme? 2. What programs/projects/activities advocated for WIM in your district? 3. How has the district programs/projects affirmed the call and ministry of WIM? 4. What programs/projects promoted access for WIM? 5. What activities/ programs/projects raised the consciousness of the A.M.E. Church on women's issues? 6. What activities/ programs/projects targeted the issue of sexism in the A.M.E. Church? 7. How has your district WIM addressed issues of opportunities for women in ministry in the A.M.E. Church? 8. How has your District WIM supported and provided assistance and outreach to women in ministry in the Global Districts? First Episcopal District The Reverend Dr. Emilygail A. Dill, President The First Episcopal District WIM embraced and promoted the quadrennial theme, Standing United, Moving Together, Stronger Together by adopting it as our focal theme throughout each Conference and for each activity of WIM. We continued to uplift and celebrate the achievements of our female ministers at various meetings. Additionally, the First District AME/WIM convened for the second year, an annual Executive Board Retreat with the focus being on equipping the leadership team to empower the women within each conference for effective ministerial leadership. Several of the conferences also held workshops and/or empowerment sessions for the WIM in their areas. The Annual Celebration of WIM which is held by the District at the seat of the Planning Meeting is a strong affirmation of the call and ministry of WIM, for it highlights the significant milestones in ministry that have been attained by the women ministers in the district. Our Lenten Devotional also affirms the call and ministry of women, as the publication includes submissions from women at each level of ministry from licentiates through to Presiding Elders and our Episcopal Supervisor. This year s publication was entitled Up From the Ashes and we are currently working on having the series of devotionals available for purchase online. We are also working on publishing a book of sermons delivered by WIM in the District. Several of the Conferences held workshops, retreats and/or empowerment sessions addressing issues germane to women in ministry and some regularly hold special services that provide preaching opportunities for the WIM in their conferences. The 2017 First District AME/WIM Summit raised consciousness concerning women in ministry and issues of mental health. The theme was From Breakdown to Breakthrough. Our Annual Summit and the Panel Discussion with the Presiding Elders addressed the issue of sexism in the AME Church. In November 2017 at our Fall Convocation Meeting the First District WIM held a panel discussion entitled Hard Questions: Heart Answers. All of the Presiding Elders in the District were invited to participate. WIM were asked to submit questions in advance and they were shared and answered in an open forum by the 11 Presiding Elders who were in attendance. Questions varied and highlighted the many issues that women ministers were facing within the District including packages, promotions and opportunity. It was a well-attended event and was full of a-ha moments; the women continued to discuss the meeting and their revelations throughout the duration of the Founder s Day meeting. It also strengthened dialogue with our leaders and laid the groundwork for a continued discussion on a variety of topics that affect women. The questions and information were shared with our Episcopal leadership and we continue to dialogue on these matters. 17 P a g e

18 In keeping with the vision of the Connectional AMEWIM, the First Episcopal District has adopted the 16th Episcopal District to partner with and to support the women ministers in the district. Each Conference in the First has been matched with a Conference in the 16th and we are working with Bishop Henning Byfield and the 16th District AMEWIM President, Rev. Deborah Jackson, to identify needs and develop systems for support. To date we have sent assistance with offerings and travel to meetings for two female ministers in the 16th. We have also identified and provided assistance for members of the AME Church who have relocated to the respective areas in the 16th District to travel to attend local AME churches and become involved in the ministries. Partnerships are as follows: Jamaica Conference - New York Guyana /Suriname Conference - New England European Conference - Bermuda Dominican Republic Conference - New Jersey/Philadelphia Virgin Islands Conference - Western New York Windward Islands Conference Delaware Haiti - Currently does not have any WIM (District will support as any need arises) Second Episcopal District The Reverend Anna E. Mosby, President All five Conferences embraced the Quadrennial Theme in their respective activities. Across the District, we have promoted a spirit of unity, support and empowerment under the District theme of Elevating, Embracing, Empowering, and Encouraging Excellence in Ministry. Key areas of concern addressed throughout the year included: (1) self-care; (2) ministry beyond the walls; and (3) mission service projects. To foster harmony and collaboration, a Unity worship service was held. The guest preacher was Retired Senior Episcopal Supervisor Rev. Dr. Cecelia Williams Bryant. For the entire month of March (Women s History Month), one Conference launched March into a Better Me. This was an online, recorded, daily message of encouragement through testimonies, motivational messages and words of wisdom. This project promoted self-care and personal growth in the areas of mental health, fitness and finance. Programs/projects/activities that have advocated WIM in your district include: Hidden Figures Summer Fellowship information was shared on diverse ministry roles and how to use our gifts to fulfill our calling. At the Mid-Year Conference WIM led the opening worship, intentionally including sister clergy of all annual conferences, levels and ages Donations were made to assist women who pastor developing, growing churches Programs/projects that have affirmed the call and ministry of WIM include: A Sister-to-Sister Fellowship was held with an open discussion of issues concerning WIM. This included feedback, insight and wisdom from seasoned sisters who have served in ministry. Emphasis has been placed on affirming and supporting ministries beyond the pulpit Monthly Words of Encouragement are ed to all WIM within the District. Feedback has been very positive and suggests these messages have provided support and promoted a spirit of unity across the District What programs/projects have promoted access for WIM? Use of social media, including Facebook pages, and a Conference WIM Youtube channel Established a mechanism to complete forms and submit dues electronically via PayPal 18 P a g e

19 Extensive use of and social media to maintain contact with WIM and provide information on WIM events at all levels In conversations with our Bishop, we have addressed the issue of sexism in the A.M.E. Church and issues of opportunities for women in ministry in the A.M.E. Church? Our District WIM supported and provided assistance and outreach to women in ministry in the Global Districts in the following ways: Four WIM participated in a Medical Missions trip to the 17 th Episcopal District (Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo). In support of the trip, WIM made financial donations, and collected feminine products, and eyeglasses (new and used) which were distributed during the trip. The Reverends Dr. Melynda Clarke, Marion Crayton, Debra Grant and Dr. Mary Newton were part of the Medical Missions Trip. Collected and sent writing materials and schools supplies to Rwanda (17 th District). Participated in the Connectional AME Black Friday Black Suit Campaign. Third Episcopal District The Reverend Dr. Peggy E. G. Turner, President The Quadrennial Theme has been used in all communications, district meetings and events. All luncheon speakers and event presenters were asked to address the theme in some manner. The theme has been promoted on the conference level as well. There have been membership drives on the conference and district level. When conference and district oral reports were given, the clergymen and lay were encouraged to become associate members. At Third District retreats there was a discussion on lifting up and affirming women s call to the ministry. Rev. Dr. Erika Crawford commented on this subject at the Third District 2017 WIM Retreat. At the last two district meetings there was dialogue on access for WIM and becoming proactive. Three subgroups were formed to address and make recommendations on how conference committees are selected, the election of General Conference delegates, and mentoring new women in ministry (Milcah Mentor Project). There will be more dialogue at the 2018 Third District retreat to follow up on recommendations and develop an action plan. The North Ohio Conference sponsored a seminar on safety concerns of women. A sergeant of the Cleveland Bureau of Community Policing also presented information on how to remain safe and what to do in the event of an active shooter situation at church. The Ohio-South Ohio Conference WIM sponsored a joint panel discussion with the Ohio-South Ohio Lay Organization focusing on the topic Women in Ministry in the A. M. E. Church Challenges from Within Our Zion. The issue of opportunities for women at all levels of ministry in the A. M. E. Church was addressed at the Third District WIM 2018 March meeting. From that discussion, it was also decided to form a subgroup to continue the dialogue and develop suggestions and recommendations to be reviewed at the next meeting. We have also had various presentations at our conferences from our WIM Chaplains. We have encouraged the conferences to collect items for the Black Friday Black Suit Campaign for women in ministry in the Global Districts. We hope to bring the items to the 2018 Quadrennial. The Third District also volunteered to partner with a Global District. The Fourth Episcopal District WIM Fourth Episcopal District The Reverend Alene E. Styles-Glover, President Increased WIM membership in the Canadian and India Conferences Improved member engagement across all presiding elder districts and conferences Expanded the scope of outreach to women in ministry in Episcopal District Sixteenth and within the Fourth, AME India and Canada 19 P a g e

20 A more comprehensive documented history of the contributions and achievements of women in ministry Participated in mission and outreach ministry to AME members in Nova Scotia Advocates for WIM Active WIM presence and engagement in presiding elder districts, annual conferences and fourth district meetings, sessions to assure the needs of WIM are advocated across the district Financial contribution to Fourth District Camp Baber renovation Participation in AME Day Illinois State Capitol Affirmed the call and ministry of WIM. Recognition of Fourth District WIM on presiding elder districts and conference levels Jarena Lee Celebration in February Those Preaching Women Scholarship Award Rev. Eleanor J. Woodstock Scholarship Luncheon Promoted access for WIM Educational Webinar on Grant Writing, April 2018 Stewardship Seminar Fourth Episcopal District Spiritual Transformation Convocation Supported and provided assistance and outreach to women in ministry in the Global Districts by the Donation of School Supplies, Clergy robes and financial support Fifth Episcopal District The Reverend Carolyn Baskin-Bell, President The District has embraced and promoted the Quadrennial Theme At District meetings as well as Conference events, workshops and seminars have focused on activities and practical ways to promote unity and solidarity such Sistering and Bonding. The Daughters of Zelophehad (Numbers 27) text has been preached and discussed through the hour of power preachers as well as sessions during Annual Conference Days Programs/projects/activities that advocated WIM Fifth District and Annual Conferences development of brochures including the mission, objectives and AME WIM through distribution and discussion Fifth District and Annual Conference Sessions promoting the gifts of WIM through the active participation of preaching and teaching. Fifth District Quarterly Newsletter highlighting the achievements and accomplishments of WIM throughout the District California Conference WIM developed a video featuring WIM s herstory Affirmed the call and ministry of WIM Fifth District and Annual Conference reporting of accomplishments of WIM in pastoral as well as specialized ministries of chaplaincy and community agencies. Promoted access for WIM In our last series of Annual Conferences four of six Annual Sermons were delivered by WIM. WIM serve as Conference Committee Chairs in Midwest-Rev. Dr. Brenda Hayes, Chair of Finance Committee, Rev. Viola Jones, Treasurer and Rev. Dr. Brenda Hayes, Dean of Conference; Southern California Conference-Rev Dr. Mary Minor, Trustee Board Chair Raised the consciousness of the A.M.E. Church on women's issues? Fifth District and Annual Conference sessions provided awareness of mental, physical and spiritual wellness with a focus on annual physical exams-mammograms, Blood pressure, heart; caring for aging 20 P a g e

21 parents; self-care; and domestic violence Addressed the issue of sexism in the A.M.E. Church Fifth District (Mandatory) and Annual Conference sessions were held regarding Sexual Harassment by Rev. Francine Nelson Brookins, Esq Addressed issues of opportunities for women in ministry in the A.M.E. Church Fifth District and Annual Conference WIM reports expressing the urgency of WIM Gifts recognized and utilized; WIM is being included on Conference Committees; participants in worship; leading training/teaching during Fifth District, Annual Conference and PE District Conferences Supported and provided assistance to women in ministry in the Global Districts? Rev. Cecelia Justice, District WIM Treasurer served as chair of Clothes Closet provided by AME WIM at the June 2017 General Board Meeting in Los Angeles and continues to serve as Leader in Black Suits and clergy vestment sharing by all Domestic WIM; Rev. Dr. Terry McCray Hill of Desert Mountain Conference is Sponsoring travel for an overseas Sister to attend WIM Quad in Birmingham Sixth Episcopal District Rev. Dr. Jonetta Prater. President The SED has seen a significant increase in the intentional inclusion of women in all areas and on all levels of ministry in the 6 th Episcopal District. Two women were elected to serve on the General Board. The opening worship for Founder s Day was preached by a woman. The series of annual conferences in Georgia had new favor. Two annual sermons, one communion service, one ordination service, an ecumenical service and Noonday worship during Planning Meeting were all preached by women. Women have also been included in the leadership of the finance committees, Board of Examiners and Christian Education. They serve as conference Trustees and presiding elders. The SED WIM Executive was installed by Bishop Reginald T. Jackson on Thursday, June 1, 2017 during the Planning Meeting. We look forward with great anticipation to hosting AMEWIM during the 2018 General Board meeting in Atlanta, GA. Seventh District The Reverend Jeannine Smalls, President The 7 th district under the leadership of Bishop Samuel L. Green, Sr. is seeking to increase the number of associate (male) members who will adopt and support the vision of WIM to move forward to the next level. We have been inspired by new learning opportunities in computer technology, and data management tools. The 7 th district leadership continues to embrace women participation on every level as often as possible. We have affirmed the call and ministry of WIM by giving women an opportunity to share their gifts and talents, across the district. Most recently a Young female was assigned to one of the major pulpits in the 7 th district- Palmetto Conference, which affirms the district s desire to support WIM calling and gifts. We have initiated the Fit for Life Project to more fully open our hearts to the hungry and develop a collaborative partnership with Columbia Housing Authority, Allen University, and Benedict College. This ministry is designed to 21 P a g e