WOMEN'S MINISTRIES OF THE WORLDWIDE CHURCH OF GOD

Philosophy Statement

"Ministry is not a choice from a biblical perspective. It is what Jesus did, and he asks us to follow in his footsteps" (Dorothy Dahlman, women's ministries consultant).

Jesus Christ defined ministry as servanthood (Matthew 20:26-27). His was a ministry that required self-denial and sacrifice. ``Take up your cross and follow me,'' he challenged his followers. The New Testament records that in spite of the real dangers and hardships they faced, women as well as men heeded Christ's call to go forth to carry out his Great Commission.

Theirs was not a quest for status or prestige. Many were tortured and died. They denied themselves even the basic comforts so that the gospel of the kingdom could be preached to all who would hear. With those New Testament pioneers as their spiritual heritage, women today who are stirred by the same Spirit to serve Christ have a need to be encouraged and equipped to do good works.

Christian women today are better educated than ever before and have more skills. They desire to be involved in their churches in areas where they can use those skills and abilities. Women's ministry is an opportunity for the church to provide a path for women to develop their relationships with Christ and with other members. Women seek for meaning and purpose in life through their relationships. An organized women's ministry program is a way that spiritually mature women in the church can provide that service for the newer women members (Titus 2:3-5).

Church growth is difficult without personal acceptance within the congregation. A women's ministry program can create an environment where women are accepted. Designed to fit the special needs of women, women's ministry is not just another church program, but is interwoven into the very fabric of the church. Women's ministry fits into a fully organized program under the leadership of the church pastor that serves all the members. Men and women worked together in the New Testament church to serve Jesus Christ in building the body of the church.