There are many faithful, godly women serving in ministry roles across our Baptist churches and we wanted to give them a shout-out this International Women’s Day, March 8. Here, two women share their current roles, some ways that God uses their talents to encourage and transform their communities, and an uplifting message to other women of faith.

Sharyn White (left) works in a leadership capacity as Associate Pastor at Ashburton Baptist Church. Sharyn said she has grown greatly as a leader through the life experiences of parenting and marriage, as well as leadership roles within the church such as leading small groups, coordinating ministries and serving on executive teams. At Ashburton, she supports and works alongside a gifted female lead pastor.

“Some years ago, I experienced a crisis of faith due to a deep loss. It was during that time that I discovered the power of vulnerability and authenticity in leadership. I know those words can sound cliché but, whatever you call it, having the courage to be honest – even about our doubts, fears and struggles – in preaching, relationships and leadership, creates space for others to do the same. And something wonderful happens when we make room for people to come before God and one another as their true selves.”

Caitlyn Phillips (right) leads the kids’ and families’ ministries at the Moolap Campus of OneHope Baptist Church. She also leads a life group there and shares her faith among those in her community who don’t know the Lord. “In my wider community I feel like God is calling me to lead in a really informal way from within the groups I connect with on a weekly basis. In these groups – a swimming group, book club and choir – I’m regularly able to share the love and friendship I experience with Jesus daily to those who don’t yet know him.”

Encouragement is one of the major ways she leads and supports others. “I often notice God using my love for words of affirmation to encourage others, whether that be through a lengthy conversation with someone where I’m able to listen and encourage into their specific life circumstances, or following the prompting of the Spirit to send an encouraging word to someone in the middle of my day. Sometimes it’s even as simple as just verbalising my gratitude to someone! I think encouragement of people is a vital part of leadership but more importantly, of relationships in general.”

Sharyn’s message of encouragement to women in ministry is to press on in Christ’s calling despite the “weight” of expectations that can at times feel “overwhelming and exhausting”.

“The church is full of women who are faithfully and capably stepping into leadership across all areas of church life. We are an incredible blessing to our communities when we do so. So, step in with confidence, trust the calling and embrace the role God has invited you into.”

In her message of encouragement, Caitlyn said the work done by women in ministry was “so crucial”, but it could also seem lonely sometimes. “I pray that God surrounds you with women who see the depth of your love for people and replenish your stores when you need it most; who recognise the burden of responsibility that you carry and help you to hand it over to God at the end of each day; who acknowledge the delicate juggle you do in caring for so many people, and gently but firmly help you to prioritise your own nourishment as well.”

Happy International Women’s Day from everyone at the BUV.