One of the things that has been interesting in the media coverage about events in The Church of England is the vocabulary: phrases such as “top jobs” and being “promoted” have been used. The words “vocation” and “calling” appeared much less frequently, perhaps because they are harder to describe. For women in any situation to be barred from a specific job or position because of their gender is not acceptable. What, for me, is doubly frustrating is when women are barred from answering God’s call on their lives because of their gender. As you may know, MCC as a denomination believes in “the priesthood of all believers” – that is, every single person is gifted and called to serve God and God’s people in ministry. I passionately believe this and hope that everyone in Northern Lights MCC feels that they can find their place, if they want to be active in ministry. There is so much for us all to gain, when, as we say in our Core Values “we are each doing what we are passionate about”. When someone is blocked from answering God’s call on their lives because of sexism, racism, disability dicrimination or homo/transphobia, that seems to be an affront to God, as well to the individual concerned. The battle against sexism within The Church of England will continue for a good while yet. The women who do become Bishops will be subject to intense scrutiny, well beyond that experienced by their male counterparts. However, the church as a whole will be strengthened by their presence and God’s work on earth will be enhanced. Praise God!
God bless
Cecilia