by Jenn Johnson
My name is Jenn Johnson. I am a woman, and I lead the coffee ministry.
So in the evangelical church, we aren’t always so good at female leadership. Liturgical churches have the historical and theological upper hand concerning female leaders in the church. Sometimes, our non-denominational churches represent such a hodge-podge of theological backgrounds, that attenders are unsure about any details beyond the necessity of Jesus. But here at CTK, where we welcome all, women should feel free to step up and step in. Sometimes, women just do not step up out of habit. The call to communion at our church is a visible example of this phenomenon. When Rick, or Chip, ask for volunteers to serve communion, usually men respond, and usually the women sit. This is not because women do not know how to pass a tray – to the contrary: we have been passing trays for centuries. Consider this is your invitation to participate confidently in the elements of worship that are sacramental.
It is important for my daughter to see women contributing in meaningful ways to the spiritual health and vitality of our church. I want her to know her value and to assume her potential for leadership. Do you assume your potential for leadership? You should. You are perfectly suited to lead in some capacity. Rick has never limited the contribution of any leader based on gender. Here at CTK we value women for and beyond their capacity to teach children and brew coffee.
I am lucky. When I think about my role models, and the leaders who have most inspired me to grow and face scary changes in life, they are women. They are women who weren’t relegated to just leading other women. God had given them a confidence to use their talents for the benefit of men, women and children.
You might make a mean casserole, which is a highly valued skill here at CTK, but you might also be able to teach God’s Word and provide wise insight into spiritual things. Do both. When you feel God’s nudge, respond. Say yes to that non-traditional leadership role. You have strength, experience, and wisdom that will benefit and strengthen the entire church body. You are amazing. Lead.
My name is Jenn Johnson. I am a woman, and I lead the coffee ministry.
So in the evangelical church, we aren’t always so good at female leadership. Liturgical churches have the historical and theological upper hand concerning female leaders in the church. Sometimes, our non-denominational churches represent such a hodge-podge of theological backgrounds, that attenders are unsure about any details beyond the necessity of Jesus. But here at CTK, where we welcome all, women should feel free to step up and step in. Sometimes, women just do not step up out of habit. The call to communion at our church is a visible example of this phenomenon. When Rick, or Chip, ask for volunteers to serve communion, usually men respond, and usually the women sit. This is not because women do not know how to pass a tray – to the contrary: we have been passing trays for centuries. Consider this is your invitation to participate confidently in the elements of worship that are sacramental.
It is important for my daughter to see women contributing in meaningful ways to the spiritual health and vitality of our church. I want her to know her value and to assume her potential for leadership. Do you assume your potential for leadership? You should. You are perfectly suited to lead in some capacity. Rick has never limited the contribution of any leader based on gender. Here at CTK we value women for and beyond their capacity to teach children and brew coffee.
I am lucky. When I think about my role models, and the leaders who have most inspired me to grow and face scary changes in life, they are women. They are women who weren’t relegated to just leading other women. God had given them a confidence to use their talents for the benefit of men, women and children.
You might make a mean casserole, which is a highly valued skill here at CTK, but you might also be able to teach God’s Word and provide wise insight into spiritual things. Do both. When you feel God’s nudge, respond. Say yes to that non-traditional leadership role. You have strength, experience, and wisdom that will benefit and strengthen the entire church body. You are amazing. Lead.
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