United States: African Methodist Episcopal Church Elects First Woman Bishop

Vashti McKenzie became the first woman elected bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church (AME) in the United States on July 11, 2000. The AME, one of the three major historically Black denominations in the U.S., marked a historic milestone with her election. McKenzie, 53, was chosen at the National Conference of the AME in Cincinnati, Ohio, where she was one of two women among 42 candidates for the bishop position. Her election reflects a growing recognition of women’s leadership within the denomination, which has over three million members globally.

The AME, founded in 1787 when Black members withdrew from the Methodist Episcopal Church due to segregation, was officially established in 1816. It has its headquarters in Washington, D.C. McKenzie’s election comes as women make up about 70% of the denomination’s members and 60,000 pastors, yet hold only 1% of leadership positions. Her appointment signals a shift toward greater inclusion of women in the church’s pastoral and administrative roles.

McKenzie, known for her writings on the challenges faced by Black women in the church, served as a pastor in Baltimore since 1990. During her tenure, she led a tripling of the congregation’s membership and initiated 15 new programs. Her leadership in the U.S. laid the groundwork for her international role, as she will soon lead the 18th district of the AME, which encompasses 200 churches and 10,000 members in Swaziland, Botswana, Mozambique, and Lesotho.

In an interview with the Ecumenical News International (ENI) following her election, McKenzie emphasized her priorities for the region: combating AIDS, promoting economic development, defending human rights, and fostering the church’s growth. She also pledged to assess the educational, social, and medical needs of the communities she will serve. Her vision underscores the church’s commitment to addressing both spiritual and practical challenges in the regions she will lead.

McKenzie’s election highlights the evolving role of Black women in the church and their increasing influence in shaping its mission and ministry. She believes her appointment demonstrates the importance of Black Christians in challenging sexism within the church and affirming their right to follow God’s call to ministry. Her leadership serves as a testament to the church’s ongoing journey toward greater equity and inclusion.

The AME’s history of advocating for social justice and community service aligns with McKenzie’s focus on addressing pressing issues in the regions she will lead. Her election reflects a broader movement within historically Black denominations to empower women and expand their roles in church leadership. As she prepares to take on this new responsibility, McKenzie’s journey continues to inspire a new generation of leaders within the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

Source: Read the original report (translated from French)