Pastors: Why Women’s Ministry?

Dr. Kay Daigle

Pastor, why have women’s ministry in your church?

Having spent a total of ten years on church staffs, I respect the multitude of balls that you as a pastor are expected to juggle. Your congregation likely wants you to be a Jack-of-all-trades, church-wise. Surely you can shepherd your flock well. Of course, you can counsel anyone who needs help with marriage, singleness, or direction. Don’t forget to preach like the best on TV and be an expert on every scripture.

Naturally, you will preside well over weddings and funerals, and always be available to visit the sick and home-bound. You’re expected to disciple church leaders and staff, prepare budgets and find ways to increase donations. Don’t forget to find extra time to know every parishioner well and provide leadership for all the ministries of the church. (And dare I remind you that your spouse must likewise do it all.)

The needs are overwhelming, and high expectations are stifling. If you serve in a church that is small or situated in an economically disadvantaged community, you may be the lone staff member or the only full-time one. You can’t do it all. Understandably, ministry to women is not at the top of your to-do list. Women receive ministry along with the men, so is something designed specifically for women necessary? Should you take the lead to initiate it? The answer is yes!

Why have women’s ministry?

Women tend to be different from men; we have unique expectations and deal with distinctive cultural and life circumstances. Most women want to connect deeply with other women. Titus 2 places responsibility on godly, older, and more experienced women to teach younger wives about marriage and family. The passage lays down the example that women disciple one another across generations, even in our culture where not all women are married.

Make it Simple

Please consider initiating ministry for and by women. It doesn’t need to be costly or involved. A simple plan works best, whatever your size or budget. This is one ministry you can easily give away. No one expects you to lead the women’s ministry. It’s a load you don’t have to carry.

Where to begin?

Prayerfully seek out one to three women who have proven themselves faithful, wise, and mature who have hearts for the unique needs of women. Ask your church leaders to join them in praying for guidance as to God’s purpose, a simple strategic way to implement that purpose, and for its leaders. Delegate the responsibility and the power to a small team of women, and watch God use them to grow the women of your church into women of influence, both in the church and in your community.

BOW is here to help.

Many of our blog posts and videos/podcasts provide direction. Or contact BOW for other possibilities of help.