Women in Theological Leadership
We have encouraged women as theological leaders throughout our history. Currently, 30% of LeaderStudies recipients are women.
As we interact with these leaders, we have learned that Christian Majority World women leaders face multifaceted pressures. A woman may serve as the only senior woman in her context, live in a society with no pattern for women in prominent positions, frequently be asked to speak before large audiences in addition to her normal professional duties, and sustain a family. To encourage such women in theological leadership, in 2017 we initiated an annual Women’s PeerLeader Forum. The WPLF met in 2018 in conjunction with ICETE, when it expanded. Participants in the WPLF — from Latin America, Africa, and Asia — share their experiences, counsel, and encourage one another. Attendees have received the WPLF with joy, and they hope to continue to expand the ministry to other women. Here, you can read the organizers’ 2018 update.
The WPLF met in 2019 but suspended its 2020 gathering due to the pandemic. The women continue to interact online via WhatsApp and fall/spring Zoom meetings.
