This year, God is prompting His leaders to thrive, take bold actions, and achieve significant works for the kingdom. This is a season of growth for all who lead or desire to lead. Your personal development is crucial during this time. There are numerous ways for a leader to cultivate their capacity to lead effectively. Nicole Massie Martin explains, “Statistics show that while the number of women accepting the call to ministry is growing, the system in place to support and develop the calling is not.”[1] There is a developmental process that helps one thrive as a leader. “Across the world, women are taking on more high-profile leadership positions as senior executives, presidents, board chairs, and associate pastors. ”[2]  Yet, Anna Morgan says, “Women are increasingly stepping into administrative and management roles in local churches, but God is calling women to pastor. God wants women in spiritual leadership roles, not just coordinating roles. If your desire is to lead, seek mentors who are well respected to help you develop your preaching and teaching gifts.”[3] Remember, every leader’s experience will be unique.

There are other ways you can help facilitate your growth and ministry. Start by having a conversation with your pastor and volunteer for opportunities. Inquire about the types of support that are needed to grow. The goal is to become an influencer. One should expand one’s relationships beyond the confines of the church. Start cultivating connections and influences with individuals outside of your congregation. Seek out men and women in leadership roles who can provide mentorship and guidance on leadership matters. Also, consider joining community organizations and leadership networks, such as business chambers or women’s ministry leadership groups. Attend events and take the initiative to introduce yourself to new people. Overall, connect with women executive pastors through a mentorship program designed for women in pastoral leadership roles.

Keep in mind, your leadership may not require a seminary education. “But do not exclude education, if it can provide growth in knowledge and spiritual formation to develop your ministry skills.”[4] A perspective among some churches is that by attending seminary or divinity schools, one can diminish the anointing and power in one’s life, as it prioritizes the letter over the spirit. Martin asserts the opposite, saying, “Educational experiences expand a leader’s network, broaden their vocational horizon, and expose them to a wider context with Christian faith.”[5] Even if you hold an administrative role now, “God is calling women to higher spiritual leadership roles, not just coordinating roles. As you become more skilled and confident in ministry and leadership, seek opportunities to preach so that your gift does not become dormant. Preaching is like a muscle that must be exercised. This is God’s work, not your own. Beyond ordination, women pastors need opportunities.”[6]  Women are needed in all types and aspects of leadership. God is calling women to do some remarkable things. So, go forth, and thrive.

Bibliography

Martin, Nicole Massie. Made to Lead: Empowering Women for Ministry. Danver: CBP. Kindle, 2016.

Morgan, Anna R. Growing Women in Ministry: Seven Aspects of Leadership Development. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Publishing Group, 2024.

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[1] Nicole Massie Martin, Made to Lead: Empowering Women for Ministry (Danvers, MD: Clearance Center, 2016), loc 1306, kindle.

[2] Ibid.

[3] Ibid., loc 1318.

[4] Ibid

[5] Ibid.

[6] Anna Morgan, Growing Women in Ministry: Seven Aspects of Leadership Development (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academics,2024), 179-89.