Resources for Women in Leadership

Across the Christian Reformed Church in North America, many churches are asking a similar question: How can we better support women who are serving, discerning a call, or growing into leadership?

There are already a number of resources available across the denomination. Becoming more familiar with them can be a meaningful step toward building healthier, more supportive ministry environments. To learn more about any of the following resources or groups, or to access denominational support services for women in leadership, reach out to [email protected]. 

Denominational Resources and Context

A helpful place to begin is the CRC Women’s Leadership page. This website, managed by Thrive, the CRCNA's congregational support agency, offers background, stories, and denominational context for women serving in ministry. It includes articles, tools, and practical supports for both individuals and churches who want to think more intentionally about leadership and encouragement.

Mentoring and Peer Support

One of the most relational forms of support comes through facilitated mentoring groups. These groups bring together 4 to 8 pastors who meet monthly for a year to support one another and explore a ministry-related theme or topic. Each group includes one in-person retreat and is grant-funded.

Currently, two groups are meeting in Michigan, including one specifically for African diaspora leaders, and another group is being formed in Ontario. These spaces offer consistent connection, shared learning, and encouragement over time. 

Retreats and Rhythms of Rest

Retreats provide an opportunity to step away from the pace of ministry and reconnect with calling and community. Opportunities include retreats for women clergy (to be scheduled), clergy couples (most recently in January 2026), and church planting couples (planned for Fall 2026). These gatherings create space for rest, reflection, and deeper relationships.

One-on-One Support: Coaching and Spiritual Direction

For more individualized support, grant funding is available for spiritual direction and coaching. Spiritual direction funding covers up to four sessions and offers space for prayerful reflection and discernment. Coaching funding covers up to two sessions and can help leaders think through workload, leadership challenges, and next steps in ministry.

These options provide a flexible entry point for leaders who may benefit from focused, one-on-one support.

For women interested in pursuing seminary, Calvin Theological Seminary offers specialized support services. Check out the Seminary's webpage for women interested in ministry to learn more.

Ongoing Support Through Thrive

Beyond structured programs, Thrive’s ministry consultants are available for coaching, consulting, and networking support.

This can be as simple as reaching out for a conversation. Consultants can help identify next steps, connect leaders to resources, and offer guidance tailored to specific ministry contexts. 

Want to know how to start this conversation? Reach out to [email protected] today.

Continuing to Grow

Taken together, these resources reflect that supporting women in ministry is not only about opening doors. It is also about sustaining leaders over time through encouragement, connection, and practical care.

For churches, the next step may be simpler than it seems. Supporting women in leadership often begins with an awareness of the unique challenges that women in ministry leadership face, followed by intentional encouragement and connection to existing resources.

Questions for Reflection

• How is your church currently supporting women who are serving or exploring leadership?
• Are there opportunities to connect leaders in your congregation with mentoring groups, coaching, or retreat spaces?
• Who in your church might benefit from encouragement to take a next step in leadership or discernment?
• How can your council or leadership team create space for ongoing support, not just one-time opportunities?

As a denomination, the CRC has taken important steps in this area. Continuing to build on that foundation will require attention, care, and a willingness to come alongside one another in meaningful ways.