As someone who grew up SBC, with clear pastoral gifts that were never affirmed or given a chance to develop, Kelly's story brings me to tears. How many of us are out there? I am so thankful that the Vineyard and other denominations (PC USA for me) exist, to show us that there is a broader and more generous way.
Kelly, I really liked what you wrote. You made Pastor Waggoner sound like his core value was he valued you as a whole human being. No consideration about the clay jar you inhabit. How refreshing. And encouraging for you! I hope you had a great time preaching and you receive lots of invitations.
Thanks Ginger! I’m actually the Lead Pastor now, as Reagan retired and I get to benefit from his leadership every day, as do lots of other women. Thanks for engaging .
Thank you for this compelling article, Kelly. And thanks to you and your church for the sermon podcast! I found it on the church website and subscribed in Apple Podcast this morning, and listened to your sermon on worship. It was so good. From my own experience, one of the biggest hurdles that men and women who grow up in complementarian environments face is that we aren't used to hearing women's voices in sermons. Because we aren't used to it, hearing a woman preach seems unnatural. And we're told that there are an incredibly small number of women preachers, all of whom just tell personal anecdotes and don't engage the biblical text. The easier it is to find and hear sermons by good women preachers, the more these walls can break.
As someone who grew up SBC, with clear pastoral gifts that were never affirmed or given a chance to develop, Kelly's story brings me to tears. How many of us are out there? I am so thankful that the Vineyard and other denominations (PC USA for me) exist, to show us that there is a broader and more generous way.
Thanks Bethany. I cried writing and reflecting on the experience. Yes and Amen to your call! I bless you and I bless the gifts of God in you.
Thankful for women who are thriving and leading others to thrive. Thank you!!
Kelly, I really liked what you wrote. You made Pastor Waggoner sound like his core value was he valued you as a whole human being. No consideration about the clay jar you inhabit. How refreshing. And encouraging for you! I hope you had a great time preaching and you receive lots of invitations.
Thanks Ginger! I’m actually the Lead Pastor now, as Reagan retired and I get to benefit from his leadership every day, as do lots of other women. Thanks for engaging .
I am grateful for the affirmation you have received. The Kingdom is better for it.
Thank you Kelly for sharing this
Thank you for this compelling article, Kelly. And thanks to you and your church for the sermon podcast! I found it on the church website and subscribed in Apple Podcast this morning, and listened to your sermon on worship. It was so good. From my own experience, one of the biggest hurdles that men and women who grow up in complementarian environments face is that we aren't used to hearing women's voices in sermons. Because we aren't used to it, hearing a woman preach seems unnatural. And we're told that there are an incredibly small number of women preachers, all of whom just tell personal anecdotes and don't engage the biblical text. The easier it is to find and hear sermons by good women preachers, the more these walls can break.
Such great work Kelly, it’s an encouraging gift to see you flourishing! I’m cheering you on!