Church of God Women in Ministry Prepare for Wesleyan Holiness Conference

Church of God Women in Ministry Eagerly Await Wesleyan Holiness Event

March is recognized as Women’s History Month, a time for reflection on the contributions of influential women throughout history. Within the Church of God movement, this year’s observance includes “PreacHer Sunday,” scheduled for March 10, with the goal of encouraging women to fill as many pulpits in Church of God congregations as possible. Just prior to this event, women in ministry across the Church of God movement and beyond will gather for a significant biennial conference—the Wesleyan Holiness Women Clergy (WHWC) conference. Known as E2024, the event is anticipated to be one of the most impactful yet for women in ministry.

The WHWC conference is specifically designed to engage, empower, and equip women to lead in the church, according to Tatum Osbourne, executive pastor of Refuge Church of God in Brooklyn, New York. She also serves as a member of the Church of God Ministries Council and as the Church of God representative to the Wesleyan Holiness Women Clergy. The association was founded in 1989 by Dr. Susie Stanley, a minister in the Church of God movement and a professor of theology and church history at Western Evangelical Seminary, now Messiah College. The group includes members from the Church of the Nazarene, the Free Methodist Church USA, The Salvation Army, and the Wesleyan Church.

Pastor Tatum emphasizes the importance of women in pastoral ministry, noting the unique challenges they face. “Oh, how we need our preaching pastoring sisters in this present age,” she says. “As women pastors, we have some unique aspects in fulfilling our call that our brothers in ministry do not have to face.” The conference aims to strengthen the tools women pastors learn in Bible college or seminary and help them master areas not typically covered in classroom instruction, such as balance, self-care, finding their voice, and building a ministry support system.

Shannon New Spangler, who represents the Church of God movement on the ministry’s board of directors, underscores the value of the WHWC conference. As treasurer, her role reflects her commitment to the ongoing mission of the organization. Her words highlight the importance of the event for women ministers seeking encouragement and resources.

The WHWC conference serves as a vital platform for women in ministry across Wesleyan-Holiness traditions. It fosters collaboration, equips leaders, and supports the unique roles women play in pastoral and ecclesiastical leadership. As the event approaches, women in ministry across the movement look forward to being refreshed, resourced, and renewed in their callings.

The gathering reflects a shared commitment to empowering women in leadership within the Wesleyan-Holiness tradition. As Micah 6:8 reminds us, to do justice, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with God, the WHWC conference embodies these values by supporting women in their spiritual and pastoral journeys.

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