How did you become involved with Women’s Ministries? How did this involvement affect you personally? Your ministry?

It was the fall of 1988 when the invitation came; life was already full of challenges. My husband pastored a growing church, we had two active little girls, and I was suffering from crippling phobias that made travel, eating in restaurants, and sleeping in hotels almost impossible. However, as the Lord led, I accepted the invitation to serve as the Dallas District Church of the Nazarene Women’s Ministries Director. Little did I know God would use that assignment as a catalyst to peel off layers of fear, doubt, and anxiety. Through the power of His Holy Spirit, I was set free from bondage and filled with a love for God and others that propelled me to serve! From then until now I have been planning and preparing District Women’s Ministries Retreats, traveling all over the country, and eating and sleeping in heavenly peace! My mission? Women all over the world need to know that Jesus saves, heals, and delivers!

If a church is reconstructing its Women’s Ministries, what advice would you give? In other words, what are the key elements of Women’s Ministries?

Gather a group of willing workers together and seek God’s direction through prayer. Establish purpose and mission statements and goals. What does God desire to do through your group to meet the needs of your congregation and of your community? Organize. Consult resources such as The Women’s Ministries Handbook for Leaders, Women Mentoring Women by Vicki Kraft, and Women’s Ministry Handbook by Carol Porter, among others. Determine to offer Bible studies and discipleship as well as fellowship.

What challenges do you think Women’s Ministries face as we reach a post-modern culture?

Plan carefully and prayerfully so every meeting counts for Christ! Take a survey and specifically tailor events to the needs of women in your congregation and community. Blend the generations (Titus 2:4-5) and evaluate every gathering in light of your mission. Women need to know God’s Word is relevant and with God’s help they can love their husbands, raise Christian children, work outside the home, balance their finances, cook, shop, and do laundry for His glory!

Recently you’ve been involved in the development of PoWeR—Pastors’ Wives Resources? Why do you believe this ministry is important?

A pastor’s wife is an ordinary person in an extraordinary role where the expectations of others can be unattainable. Anger, loneliness, a sense of inadequacy, and lack of spiritual fervor are temptations that breed despair. The need for pastor wife resources is great. It is my prayer PWR will be instrumental in empowering and equipping this special group of women and that we will point them to the Source of strength and wisdom – JESUS!