Clergy and seminary women gathered in the Grand Rapids denominational building on Tuesday, March 13 from noon to 1:15 p.m. for a Brown Bag Lunch: Learning Conversation. Twenty women showed up ready to receive from each other and the Holy Spirit.
We serve in local churches and ministries as pastors and staff, chaplains, professors and denominational directors. We are Calvin Seminary students, clergy ordained in other denominations, Commissioned Pastors, and Ministers of the Word. In terms of length of time in ministry, we are in the 0-4 years ministry category … up to 25 years plus. Some are “in-between," prayerfully and patiently waiting for God’s call.
As we gathered in the various ministry categories in the Lake Michigan Conference Room, we heard each other’s joys, challenges and hopes for a new reality as women gifted and called to serve in the 21st Century. We are role models, encouragers and committed women of God! It was inspiring and hopeful!
We had a “kairos moment” following our group picture. Dr. Emily Brink (who has worked with many churches through worship learning events) was delighted to share some encouraging words at the closing. It was beautiful to witness this wise, respected woman giving words to strengthen and remind us of who we are. We closed our time together in giving God praises by singing The Doxology!
As two young seminary women were leaving, they said, “Let’s do this quarterly!” This is great! We will send out a survey to see what others would like to do. These learning conversations will focus on sharpening skills, personal, spiritual transformation and mentoring relationships/role modeling/multiplication.
In addition to these learning conversation opportunities, may the Lord make a way for a one or two day retreat for all ordained women and seminary women in the U.S. and Canada to come together for support and renewal.
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