Why does the UMC ordain women?

Clergywomen have been part of Methodism since John Wesley licensed Sarah Crosby to preach in 1761. Although women were ordained in the Methodist tradition as early as the late 1800s, it was the May 4, 1956 General Conference vote for full clergy rights that forever changed the face of ordained clergy.

The United Methodist Church continues to declare its belief in the full equality of women and the importance of women in decision-making and leadership positions at all levels of the church.

These articles by several United Methodists offer historical context and interpretation of Scripture references related to the role of women in church leadership.

Commentaries

• Commentary: The Ordination of Women

• Commentary: United Methodism and the Ordination of Women

• Commentary: Women in Ministry

• Commentary: Why Do United Methodists Ordain Women When the Bible Specifically Prohibits It?

• Commentary: Women in the Ministry

Official Statements

• Rights of Women
• Every Barrier Down: Toward Full Embrace of All Women in Church and Society

Resources

• Women Called to Ministry
  This six-session study explores our understanding of women's roles in The United Methodist Church. Why are women ordained? Why are they included in all areas of leadership? How did we arrive at those understandings?