06/13/2026
As a United Methodist pastor, I respectfully but firmly disagree with the Southern Baptist Convention’s continued opposition to women serving in pastoral ministry and church leadership.
Scripture consistently demonstrates that God calls and equips women for ministry. Deborah served as a judge and leader of Israel (Judges 4–5). Huldah was a prophet consulted by kings and priests (2 Kings 22:14–20). Mary Magdalene was the first witness to the Resurrection and was sent to proclaim the Good News to the apostles (John 20:17–18). Priscilla helped teach and disciple early Christian leaders (Acts 18:26). Phoebe served as a deacon of the church at Cenchreae (Romans 16:1–2). Junia was recognized among the apostles (Romans 16:7).
Most importantly, on the Day of Pentecost, Peter proclaimed the fulfillment of Joel’s prophecy: “Your sons and your daughters shall prophesy” (Acts 2:17). The Holy Spirit did not establish separate callings based on gender. The Spirit was poured out on all flesh.
The Apostle Paul declares in Galatians 3:28, “There is no longer Jew or Greek, there is no longer slave or free, there is no longer male and female; for all of you are one in Christ Jesus.” While the Church continues to wrestle with many theological questions, the witness of Scripture reveals a God who repeatedly calls people according to grace, gifting, and faithfulness rather than according to human categories.
The United Methodist Church affirms that women and men are equally called by God and equally eligible to serve in every level of ministry and leadership. Our Social Principles affirm the full and equal participation of women in the life of the Church and society. We celebrate the countless women whose preaching, teaching, leadership, pastoral care, and prophetic witness have strengthened Christ’s Church throughout history.
I am grateful for the women who have shaped my own faith journey. I have witnessed women preach the Gospel, lead congregations, disciple believers, and bear fruit for the Kingdom of God. Their ministry is not an exception to God’s work; it is evidence of God’s work.
The Church is strongest when it recognizes the gifts God has given rather than placing barriers where God has opened doors.
May we be a people who ask not, “Can God call a woman?” but rather, “Who are we to deny whom God has called?”
“The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few.” (Matthew 9:37)
Pastor Rick Kelly
Kenton & Hartly United Methodist Church
