Thirty ordained women in licensed posts across the Archdeaconry of Cleveland (from the Tees southwards to Ryedale and the A1 eastwards to Whitby) gathered for an afternoon recently with Bishop of Whitby Barry Hill.
Led jointly by Bishop Barry, Archdeacon of Cleveland Amanda Bloor and Bishops’ Adviser for Women’s Ministry Dianne Gamble, the group enjoyed fellowship over afternoon tea and spent time praying together.
“We shared with one another how ordained ministry feels at the moment, the kind of Church we hope to see in the years to come and what we can best do across the diocese to help us get there,” said Bishop Barry.
He added, “It was good to spend time reflecting candidly together about the pain of gender inequality as well as the joys of ministry, and to have opportunity to express again how hugely grateful to God I am for the wonderful ordained women of the archdeaconry.”
The group heard from new Archbishop’s Advisor for Pastoral Care Mo Theodosius, and from research into maternity policy and ordained women from working class contexts – both being led by people from the archdeaconry.
“It was good to be with fellow ordained women and to share thoughts about ministry,” said Archdeacon Amanda.
“One woman had been in the first tranche ordained as priest in 1994 whilst others were new curates in training; all affirmed God’s calling and their desire to serve the Church in this Diocese.
“We laughed together, ate excellent cake (thanks, Pep!) and looked to the future. Thanks go to Bishop Barry for arranging the afternoon and to all those who attended.”
The group agreed to meet again this Autumn.
