Do you hear yourself Sandy? Lordy, look back as some old threads why don't you? We've all had the women in ministry discussion before and many churches have concluded that the call of Christ to preach comes to both men and women. We've had this argument likely a dozen times before. I'm not playing that game any more. I doubt Jesus himself could convince you to change your mind about this one.
I should really say thank you on behalf of the UMC and the rest of mainline churches for sending us your bright, committed and called women to serve in our churches. Your loss and our gain.
Maybe if you'd ever had the opportunity to work with great women pastors like I have you might think differently. I've worked with women like Trinette McCray, former President of the ABC/USA and one of the best preachers I have ever heard in my life. One sermon I heard her preach at an ABC General Board event was one of the most Holy Spirit filled message I've ever heard in my life. The former pastor of Garfield Park Baptist Church in Indianapolis was one of the best pastors I've ever known in church leadership and preaching.
My two former District Superintendents in Cedar Falls, both women, are incredible leaders and gave great support to my ministry and my move the UMC when I came into the denomination. Of the ten UMC churches in Sioux City I already know several women pastors and they are gifted and qualified. One of them pastors the third largest UMC church in the city and she is doing a great job.
Anyone who has served in denominations that lift up women in ministry and see their work can't help but laugh (or cry) at the backward thinking that still leads some churches to deny the calling and gifts of women to the roles of Bishop, Elder, Deacon, or whatever term different churches use for persons in ordained leadership.
Again, your loss our gain.