An Open Prayer of Affirmation and Solidarity for Baptist Women

On June 11-12, 2024 the Southern Baptist Convention will hold its Annual Meeting in Indianapolis, Indiana and will vote on the second reading of a constitutional amendment stating that churches which affirm, appoint, or employ women as pastors of any kind are not in friendly cooperation with the convention and should be disfellowshipped. 

When the largest Protestant denomination in the U.S. takes actions like these, millions of women hear a message that says God does not value them equally. 

To counter those negative messages, BWIM invites you to add your voice to “An Open Prayer for Affirmation and Solidarity for Baptist Women.”

We believe prayer is a form of advocacy, so by adding a sentence to the prayer you join the movement to resist Baptist patriarchy. 

BWIM’s staff will be present at the SBC Annual Meeting in Indianapolis outside of the Convention Center to read the prayer and be the physical presence of our community offering prayers that counter the SBC’s message of oppression. We also plan to be on Facebook live as we pray so that you can experience the reading of these prayers as well.

The Open Prayer is part of BWIM’s three-fold strategy to respond to the SBC’s denigration of women in ministry which you can read about HERE.

This is your chance to take action and join the movement against patriarchal oppression of women in ministry among Baptists!

We hope that you, and many others, will unite your voices in prayer to ensure Baptist women know they are made in God’s image, and that there are no limits to how they can follow Christ and serve the church! God of mercy and justice, hear our prayer.

 Suggestions for how you might add the prayer are included on the form. 

*The prayer is updated each evening with the sentences added that day. The last update was: June 18, 2024 and now includes sentences from 323 people.

God of all people, may Baptist women who have been limited in how they can minister find unlimited Spirit empowerment to follow their callings. -Meredith Stone, Waco, TX

God of all, help us push against forces that seek to limit not only the ways in which your people can serve you and each other, but the ways in which we try to stifle your kingdom here on earth as it is in heaven. -Heather Deal, Waco, TX

God of Holy Justice, thank you for the women around the globe who preach your gospel story. We pray for wisdom for those who have not yet felt the impact of these incredible women, and pray for relief for women who have been told they cannot share their story. -Anonymous

May God flood the men and women of the SBC with the grace and courage to stand up for and stand in the inclusive love of Jesus. -Charlie Fuller, Dallas, TX

Lord, open hearts blinded by fear to accept and affirm the gifts and talents of our sisters in faith called to pastoral ministry throughout the Baptist movement. Amen. – Stephen Shaw, Portsmouth, VA

May God lead us to bigger and wider expressions of love. -Michael Mills, Fort Worth, TX

God of Light, inspire the thoughts and pervade the imaginations of those who seek to quiet the voices of women that Your truth would be revealed and toxic power would be the quiet one. -Suzanne Cain, Little Rock, AR

I pray that all who are called by God are welcomed into the ministry in whatever capacity God ordains. -Brenda Cohen, Gainesville, FL

God of glory, God of all…for the powerful examples of women in ministry in my life I give you the utmost thanks and praise! For the women who are held back from their calling to minister, I ask you to give them the extraordinary courage and support needed to follow that calling! You are the God who calls all genders, races, and ages, and we pray you make that possible! -Kim Wilkinson, King, NC

A prayer for all the little girls growing up in the church who are eager to receive God’s call on their lives -Ka’thy Gore Chappell, Winston-Salem, NC

For the influence, encouragement, and love of Donna Bowman, Snookie Dixon, Betty Talbert, Ruth Ann Foster, Lai Ling Ngan, Tiffani Harris, Libby Bellinger, Julie Pennington-Russell, Sharon Dowd, Carolyn Blevins, Nenette Measels, Ellen di Giosia, Meredith Stone, and so many other faithful women, God, I am grateful. For your calling on our lives, we give thanks. -Christine Jones, Tullahoma, TN

I pray that all those in power will be willing to let go of their power to make space for the voices of all women to be heard. May they realize that they do not need to speak for the marginalized, but to be silent so the marginalized voices can be heard. -Rev. Dr. Maria L. Stinnett, Rossville, GA

May all Baptist denominations support and honor God’s calling of women, especially those called to be pastors, and demonstrate that support and honor by encouraging churches to call and ordain them as pastors. -Robin Sandbothe, Columbia, MO

I pray in gratitude for learning of God’s love for missionaries in G.A.s and how that influenced my life and I pray for each little girl who hears of this same love that she will continue to follow God’s leading in her life, stepping into ministry in the faith that God has put her right where God planned for her (& me) to be…no matter who says otherwise!  -Rebecca Dixon, Lavonia, GA

May our God reign as we proclaim equality and love for one another affirming women as ministers, pastors, and teachers of the Word to preach the gospel to all people. May Baptist believers around the world affirm and acknowledge women as leaders of the faith equal and in solidarity with men to serve, lead, and pastor congregations worldwide, especially in the SBC. May patriarchy die and fellowship of sisters and brothers be our goal always. -Rev. Trenda Jacocks, MCL, Fairfax Station, VA

God of all people, we lament the ways in which human beings enforce injustice and limit your Kin-dom through selfish policies and power-grabs. May our Baptist sisters continue to hear and follow your unwavering and unquestionable call. -Molly Shoulta Tucker, Louisville, KY

Creating, Redeeming & Sustaining God– we pray a prayer of gratitude and hope. Thank you for our courageous foremothers who have modeled strength, resilience and persistence. Thank you for campus ministers, pastors, mentors and lay leaders who taught us that we are beloved children of God and encouraged us to follow God’s call on our lives. We pray that both women and men within Baptist life will speak with prophetic boldness so that women are fully affirmed within Baptist life as ministers and faith leaders. We pray that the gifts of women are celebrated– not just one or two Sundays a year, but every day of the year so that the fullness of God’s abundance might be shared through their ministries, through their prophetic leadership and through their faithful service. -Rev. Rebecca Mathis, Wake Forest, North Carolina

God we pray for the women who are affected by this decision today. May they know of your love for them and may they stand firm in the call you have placed on their lives. Hold them in the light of your comfort and peace. -Rev. Brittany Stillwell, Little Rock, AR

God of Hagar, Rahab, Deborah, and Mary, may You cause the people who believe they can decide who You call to remember that on Resurrection day. You appeared first to the women at the tomb giving them the world’s first preaching assignment- to share the GOOD NEWS that You have risen. -Barbara Lavarin, Durham, NC

A prayer for churches to have the courage to support the girls and women they have Baptized to live fully into the lives and professions God has called them to. -Taryn Deaton, Alexandria, VA

I pray for clergy and congregations to not only affirm but fully celebrate the gifts, leadership, and callings of women and pray that in the midst of it all they will not make women pawns in the politics of a denomination.  -Rev. Amy Starr Russell, Greensboro, NC

God please surround women directly affected by this decision today. May they feel and know your love, peace, comfort and hope. May they know your love and and love and support of so many people who are thinking of them, praying for them and standing with them today. -Missy Ward Angalla, Kampala, Uganda

Loving God, forgive us when we have failed to acknowledge or affirm Your calling lived out in the lives of women who bravely and competently serve as senior pastors. -Scott Ford, Birmingham, AL

Almighty God, I give you thanks for the women of Scripture, throughout history, and the faithful women in my life who have pastored well. May all your children, men and women, called by your name pastor, preach, and prophesy as you have called them and be affirmed in doing so. -Bradley Boberg, Chantilly, VA

Dear Lord, may your unfailing love serve as a shield for women in ministry, giving them hope to remain steadfast in their faith, be courageous, and stand strong despite the patriarchal nature of the religious community that oppresses your daughters. May their obedience to your call bring about positive change. Amen. -Griselda Escobar, Tyler, TX

Dear God of grace and God of glory on your people pour your power! We thank you for the brave women and men who use their positions of power to move the Gospel forward. We ask your guidance for those who have been silenced and are powerless to be heard. Remind us that Your Grace will always abound. -Mari Wiles, Conway, NC

May God bless the women of faith who serve as pastors, ministers, and chaplains. May the sound of your call drown the noise of doubt and fear that confronts them. -Larry Dickens, Raleigh, North Carolina

Empowering God, from the beginning you have called women to share your love and grace. May the women who find their voices, experiences, wisdom, and callings diminished by the powers that be know there is a community of support that sees them and believes them. -Brittany McDonald Null, Columbia, MO

May the Spirit of God comfort and empower every Baptist woman whose voice is silenced, whose gifts are ignored, and whose calling is questioned. -Tambi Swiney, Candler, NC

For the ways you call us, we give you thanks, O God, and for my fellow men in Baptist life who lead your churches, remind us that we only limit you when we limit the voices of the women you have called.  -Jon Singletary, Waco, TX

May we all lean into the vision of equity inherent in the nature and Image of God, giving voice and space to the silenced, just like Jesus does. -Andie Pellicer, Woodway, TX

Almighty God, empower those you have called to say yes to whatever step is next in their lives. May every woman know they are valued, created in YOUR image, to do good work that you have ordained for them to do. May we each seek YOUR will, YOUR face, YOUR peace in the path YOU have placed before each of us. Empower. Equip. Encourage… to love in your name, Jesus! Amen. -Jennifer Matheny, PhD, Waco, TX

Our God, we are grateful for women in ministry and higher education who inspire so many students: C. Anne Davis, Diana Garland, Molly Marshall, Linda Bridges, Gaynor Yancey, and so many others. We thank you for their stewardship. -Laine Scales, Waco, TX

God in whose image we are created, thank you for showing me as a little girl that you call women and men alike to preach the good news of your love. Help us be witnesses and supporters for other little girls and women as they respond to your Holy calling. -Laura Davis, Stuarts Draft, VA

God of all creation, bless and empower Baptist women today in your holy name. With gratitude, we remember their gifts of faith, charity, and courage that demonstrate your justice and love. Thank you for the ways your love is made known through the faithfulness of women to their callings. -Luci Ramos Hoppe, Waco, TX

May the Holy Spirit empower men to see women as fully human and partners with them in the ministry. -Raquel Webb, College Station, TX

God, I ask you to encourage and strengthen those women that find themselves in the liminal space of answering your call and hearing the voices that tell them they can’t. May your voice be stronger and may they find the courage to follow you. -Kristen Muse, Raleigh, NC

Father I ask that you open the heart of our Baptist men. Give them courage, strength and boldness to stand up for women in ministry. Reveal what’s in their hearts so they can allow you to heal them. Let their actions show love for all Women who are called to serve You in Jesus Name! -Yvonne Harold, Killeen, TX

A prayer for open hearts and open minds, open to receive God’s wisdom and leadership from whatever body God chooses to package it in. -Ashley Bean Thornton, Waco, TX

Great God, give us eyes to see that women and men are created equal, hearts to bless this beautiful equality, and hands to put it into action in our churches.  -Charles Foster Johnson, Fort Worth, TX

God above, may our wills align with yours. -Daniel Webb, Bryan, TX

Lord of Miriam, the first prophet, and Mary, the first Gospel preacher, we pray that limiting beliefs will never limit your movement in the hearts of women being called even today. -Rev. Dr. Emily Holladay, Frankfort, KY

Father to us all, may we seek to draw near to you as you guide us in you love for one another, each beautifully created to be exactly who we are. -Lou Arterburn, Waco, TX

God, we are grateful for your call to women throughout history to serve and to lead. Today we pray that those who are seeking to thwart your call in the lives of women would repent and turn to you in humility, seeking forgiveness for the harm they have and are causing. In the name of Christ, our sustainer in times of trouble. Amen -Linda Wilkerson, Dallas, TX

Loving God, we thank you that you created and called women and men to serve you. We pray for our sisters in the SBC that they might know and experience our support for them. Help them to know that their calling comes from you – not from those in the SBC. May they find courage in the difficult days ahead. And if all else fails, may they be brave enough to flip over some tables, like Jesus did, and speak the truth of your love and acceptance of all. Amen! -Christy McMillin-Goodwin, Front Royal, VA

Dear God, grant that your wisdom may guide us to hear your voice in the voices of women you call to lead your church. -David Tew, Hunstville, AL

God may you be expressed fully, in and through all people, especially women, whose voices are desperately needed to right the listing ship we call “the church”. -David Pooler, Waco, TX

Mighty God – our SBC Brothers and Sisters have been used by you for good in so many, many ways including being the family that raised me, taught me, encouraged me, and ordained me. May Holy Spirit move through their midst with power and grace and change hearts and minds. May they once again be a force for your Good in the world. -Cathy Anderson, Kennesaw, GA

We pray, O God, for hearts and eyes to be opened among Baptist men to see the promise that women bring to the Kingdom, along with their many gifts and talents. Let these men speak as advocates for women everywhere.  -Kimberly Martin, Rolla, Missouri

Heavenly Father, we pray that you will continue to call women to ministry, and will bless their work with leadership from your Holy Spirit. Give them confidence in your love to serve as you have gifted them to do. -Gayle Spurlock, Zebulon, NC

A prayer for women to be fully known, a thanksgiving for the women who have paved the way -Sarah Ritter,  Waco, TX

I am grateful, O God, for the women senior pastors who have shaped my faith as mentors and serve with me as colleagues and friends. -Randy Carter, Durham, NC

God of justice, stir in the hearts of all Baptist men convicting them and empowering them through the Spirit to be strong, persistent, and passionate advocates for all women in ministry. Help them, O God, to use their voice and their power to help women thrive in the ministries you have called them to.  -Nikki Hardeman, Atlanta, GA

I pray for the children and teens watching and listening- in their churches and families-may they know they can be chosen by God to serve and minister as full participants in the church. Their gender is not a closed door but a bridge for the Kin dom. Amen -Dawn Hallman, Garland, TX

A prayer that men in leadership would open their hearts and understand that their strength is not diminished by strong women in leadership, but supported as both are equally yoked in ministry to Jesus Christ. -Angie Vess, Whiteville, NC

A Prayer for Baptist men to become stronger advocates for women in ministry. -Pamela Dunn Surratt, Mount Holly, NC

A prayer that ALL men and women who choose to follow God’s call on their life will be affirmed and supported by all who call themselves followers of Christ! -Bobby Morrow, Gaffney, SC

For all the women who reflect the image of the Creator and are co-laborers for the cause of Christ we pray. – GregMamula, Omaha, NE

A prayer for daughters and women everywhere to know that their gender is an asset, not a liability, and a prayer to continue to boldly answer God’s call to pastor and preach as more men advocate, validate and affirm God’s blessing on women to shepherd and proclaim Jesus Christ everywhere! -Rev. Dr. Will Watson, Winston-Salem, NC

“Last at the Cross, First at the Tomb” A prayer of gratitude to ALL Baptist Women ministers & leaders. -Pam Lolley Frey, Marana, AZ

God, I pray that you remind women that you call them and that their perception of that call is just as trustworthy as a man’s perception of his calling. Remind them that they are granted gifts of leadership from you and no man can take those away. Give us strength and give us endurance in times of doubt and discouragement. Amen. -Taylor Edwards, Wilson, NC

Gracious God, pour out your Spirit on us fresh so ALL will continue the work of proclaiming the gospel of Jesus. Open hearts and minds to the knowledge that You call and equip men and women to the work of the pastorate. Let us not grow weary or complacent in the work You call us to. -Rev. Tina Collins, Knoxville, TN

Lord, we are grateful for your calling to serve. We give thanks for the gifts of women and the roles we play in the faith community. May all women called to serve have the same opportunities. -Rev. Ellen Sechrest, Decatur, GA

God we stand in the gap for women who do not feel they can be their authentic selves in their church, and please change the hearts and minds of those who do not support these women. -Meghan Becker, Waco, TX

Mother God, we give thanks for the women who have answered your call in the face of opposition. We weep with the women whose callings have been stifled by men with power. We pray for the women you have called and will continue to call into partnership–may their gifts flourish. -Rev. Allison Benfield, Charleston, SC

Prayer that all people can be accepted in the ministry of preaching, leadership and pastoral care. -Wade Hampton, Kernersville, NC

A woman was the first to share the news of Jesus’ resurrection. May we all affirm women to share the gospel of Christ.  -Frank McCrory, Birmingham, AL

I pray for the end of the fear that keeps us grasping known power structures and sacrificing the growth waiting for us in the sacred space where all gifts are honored. -Rev Leigh Anne Armstrong, Auburn, AL

God sees you and He says you are ENOUGH! -Susan Burton, Chesapeake, VA

May the power of truth overcome strongholds of ignorance so that the prophetic voices of women can finally and freely speak life and truth into times like these. -Dennis Myers, Waco, TX

I pray that God will speak and lead Southern Baptists to affirm the fact that both men and women are called to all positions of ministry and that the local church is best suited to make those decisions.  -Bill Sumners, Franklin, TN

May minds long closed to seeing Scripture through Jesus’ lens of equality and Spirit’s call for women to equal leadership in all areas of life, faith and church be opened wide by the Sacred Light of Understanding and Acceptance. May those in places of power be transformed from fear to love. -Tricia Baldwin, TX

I pray for women to have the courage to be “squeaky wheels” in all the places that they are told to be silent. -Johnny Jackson, Fayetteville, NC

A prayer of gratitude for the specific women in ministry who have made a difference in your life. -Sarah Hanks, Inman, SC

Lord, open the minds and hearts of those who want to limit your voice and call. -Lynn Odom, Durham, NC

Spirit of God, break down the barriers of patriarchy among Baptists and give us a fresh vision of your inclusive Kingdom. -Drew Hill, Arlington, VA

May Baptist women believe and understand that they are loved fully, created equally and bestowed with invaluable gifts that are needed for the continued fullness of God’s kin-dom. -Amy Andrews, Greenville, NC

Praying that all of God’s children are valued in their service to the Lord. I pray women in ministry across our convention might be encouraged in their calling and giftings. -Heath Powers, Conroe, TX

I pray that Southern Baptists will learn that the word “pastor,” at its root, means “one who feeds.” No one has fed us better or more faithfully than women. -Jim Somerville, Richmond, VA

Merciful and loving God, I lift up women in ministry and ask that you strengthen and encourage them, pour out your love upon them and bless their ministries. I pray that those who want to disavow their calling will seek you and experience the saving transformation you promise ALL of us through Jesus. -Mitzi Hubble, Mechanicsville, VA

God of grace and glory, let it be known to your people that we do not have the authority to impose limits on those you have called. May women flourish in the ministerial roles you have called them to in your mighty power and love. Amen. -Kendall Fountain, Stillwater, OK

A prayer for the spirit of Gamaliel to be present, “For if their purpose is of human origin, it will fail. But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these (wo)men you will only find yourselves fighting against God.” (Acts 5:38-39) -Susan Joyce, Enfield, NC

May all Baptist men and women join in overcoming the very real boundaries preventing girls and women from fully living into their God-given gifts and calls to ministry. May we all experience the shared joy of forming networks, associations, conventions, and institutions that nurture and fully realize these calls. -Ruth Walker Demby, Gainesville, GA

As an SBTS grad, I pray for all Baptist women to experience justice, affirmation and opportunity as God’s beloved, equally gifted, called and needed in the church. -Daniel Pflug, Grand Rapids, MI

May all Baptist men and women join in overcoming the very real boundaries preventing girls and women from fully living into their God-given gifts and calls to ministry. May we all experience the shared joy of forming networks, associations, and institutions that nurture and fully realize these calls. -Ruth Walker Demby, Gainesville, GA

Holy Creator God, we pray for the SBC and their decision. May we remember to not limit your power and your love, and remind the women affected that they are not called by people, they are called by you. -Naomi Black-Bass, Anderson, SC

Please support Women in Ministry. There are too few loving pastors available. Being under the leadership of a female pastor has made all the difference in my understanding of a loving God. Yesterday, I was asked to officiate a funeral with Muslims present. The pastor gave me the confidence to go and share God’s love with those assembled. Her name- Reverend Sarah Shelton. -Mary Dixon, Birmingham, AL

God, I pray that the women you are calling to serve will be able to hear your still, small voice over the rumbles that crush their imaginations. May you continue to speak to each woman and encourage her to find a place where she is valued and able to serve with all you have created her to be. -Rev. Mary Peterson, Nederland, TX

Forgive our foolish ways, God, in trying to deny the reality of your image in women, including women in ministry leadership. -John Campbell, Louisville, KY

Come Holy Spirit guide and bless the work of your church, may your power be loosed in words of prophecy for your people. -Kathy Chamlee, SC

With gratitude for the women across the centuries who have fought to live into their God-given callings, we pray that the women of the SBC will hear and know the full potential of their own callings, and live into them. -Lesley Ratcliff, Jackson, MS

Thank you God for the faithful ministries of Geneva Metzger, Paula Clayton Dempsey, Peggy Haymes, Sue Fitzgerald, Gail Coulter, Julie Merritt Lee, Michelle McClendon, Mary Apicella, Marcy Mynatt, and so many others. -James Garrison, Arden, NC

A prayer of thanks for strong women who have shaped my ministry by their ministry. -Steve Ayers, Concord, NC

May we continue to cherish the four fragile freedoms which hold the cornerstones of our denomination and follow the examples of those chosen by God such as Ruth, Deborah, Esther, to lead us further in his plans. -Tricia Etheridge, Milledgeville, GA

A prayer for more true Allies beyond word only but of deed as well in support of women. -Tina Boyles Bailey, Graz, Austria

A prayer to affirm that women in ministry are called by God and are the hands and feet of Jesus. -Carson Dean, Mount Holly, NC

A prayer for women who were called by God and NOT allowed to use their gifts in local churches, may we learn from our mistakes. -Matthew Vandagriff, St. Louis, MO

We are grateful for the clergy women parish ministers as well as specialized ministers in our midst at the Alliance of Baptists. And personally I am grateful for the female ministers at Metro Baptist Church who have changed both my hearing of scripture and my experience of worship. -Carole Collins, Sylva, NC

Dear Lord, your daughters are not only asking for strength, justice and freedom for ourselves, but for our daughters, granddaughters and our spiritual daughters and granddaughters. Grant it Lord! -Priscilla Tunnell, Rome, Georgia

May all those women who are Called to ministry in the Southern Baptist Convention be fully vested in their ministry and know the Holy Spirit’s affirmation in it. May the Holy One’s justice roll down and free the SBC from the sin of patriarchy. May these Called women of God remain strong in their beliefs and witness for Christ. -Rev. Deborah Vaughn, MD

Thank You Lord that You see fit to call anyone whom You choose and use them to fulfill Your Great Commission! Thank You Lord, for the women ministers You placed in my life to affirm and help me fulfill my ministry calling! -Rev. Mitchell Marlowe, Boone, NC

It is my prayer that those who fail to understand how from the very beginning Christ used women to spread his love and forgiveness to all, will see the error of their beliefs. -Greg Versen, Harrisonburg, VA

I pray for Baptist men to become stronger advocates for women in ministry, I pray for justice for women among all Baptists. Thank you for all the women in ministry who have made a difference in my life since childhood! -Susan Brian, Topeka, KS

Almighty God, thank You for Your calling on each & all Your people. We ask Your continued, renewed Presence, protection, blessing, & Truth for, on, & in Your daughters & sons to recognize Your image authentically, beautifully, & powerfully in women. May those who fail You in this repent. -Laura Pogue, PhD, Abilene, TX

I pray that God will open the eyes and soften the hearts of those who so sternly resist all the gifts women have to offer as pastors. “In God’s own image God created them; make and female God created them.” -Carroll Fadal, Waco, TX

Gracious God, may the vision of Joel–that our sisters in the faith be empowered for proclamation of your Word–be a reality in our time, even, perhaps, one day in the SBC. Amen -Thomas Reynolds, Bridgewater, VA

A prayer for sisters and brothers to discover the vastness of God’s love and inclusion. -Grace Powell Freeman, Atlanta, GA

I pray that all women in all forms of ministry in the Baptist churches of the SBC would be accepted by the SBC as they are called by God to their ministry. Jesus and Paul accepted the ministry of women, so the SBC should follow their example. -Linda Barnes, Tappahannock, VA

Lord, grant that your word which says your sons and daughters will prophesy with the coming of the Holy Spirit may be realized in all places.
-Rev. Jane Mayo Lang, Wichita, KS

Thank you, Lord, for all of the Sunday school teachers, GA leaders, youth leaders, and college mentors in SBC churches and ministries who shaped my calling to ministry. -Tiffani Harris, Waco, TX

I’m praying for women to be empowered, supported, and championed by our siblings as we all seek follow the leading of the Holy Spirit in life and ministry. -Liz Daye, Roswell, GA

Thank you, Lord, for the women who preach in our pulpits and into our lives; may you continue to amplify their voices among the nations. -Dr. Eric Spivey, Birmingham, AL

Dear Lord, thank You for promising to lead Your servants into Truth; for guiding women as well as men into ministries fit for our generation, so needy for the Gospel in the face of secular society: may oppression and prejudice be broken down by Your Spirit’s power, even today! -Alison Overton, Coventry, UK

A prayer for Baptist leadership to know that the word “complementarianism” isn’t in the Bible and Jesus never spoke of it. I pray that Baptist men become stronger advocates for women in ministry. -Karen Folsom, Harrisonburg, VA

For the uplifting of all women in ministry, In all places and at all times. -Haley Hampton, Wichita Falls, Texas

Praying that God will move in the hearts of His children who would seek to limit the calling of all, whether male or female, to serve Him. May God continue to reveal Himself to each person He does call and to continue to empower women who faithfully serve as pastors. -Anonymous, Gainesville, FL

God, grant women everywhere the opportunity and courage to proclaim your message boldly, speaking truth to power, and following your calling and will. Grant those, men and women, who hear them ears to hear, eyes to see, and hearts filled with your love. -Mary Frances Thompson, Greenwood, SC

Lord we give thanks for all the women that have shaped and continue to shape our lives and the life of the church. Bless women of faith with a vision of your calling, and call men of faith to speak and act as encouragers of women in their response. -Paul Raybon, Asheville NC

Lord, bring attention back to Paul’s unilateral inclusion of women in his famous declaration of emancipation in Christ: “There is no longer Jew or Greek, there is no longer slave or free, there is no longer male and female, for all of you are one in Christ Jesus.” There is no other way to interpret the word one but ‘one’ — indicating inclusion, harmony, hospitality and full participation in the body of Christ together on an equal playing field. -Rev. Julia S. Ledford, Wendell, NC

I pray that Baptist congregations will fully realize the many ministry gifts that women are already offering among them and that these women will be joyfully affirmed across a myriad field of ministries so essential to the vitality of our communities. -Deborah Carlton Loftis, Richmond, VA

Gracious Lord, we thank you for the women you have called into ministry. May their voices continue to proclaim the good news of your overwhelming, never-ending love to all people everywhere. Amen. -Vallerie King, Carbondale, Illinios

I pray that those in the SBC can open their hearts to ALL who are called to ministry, cultivate compassion for themselves, and find freedom from the burden of traditions that have only limited God’s work in our world. -Amelia Britt, Winston-Salem, NC

For the women that have gone before and paved a path of service so that I could see myself through their calling, I give thanks. For opportunities to be the face and the voice of your love in a system that often divides and creates barriers, I give thanks. Grant us strength to press onward in the midst of persecution. Grant us peace in the midst of pain. And grant us visions of hope for what will be when everyone that enters the baptismal waters can also enter the pulpit to proclaim your love. Amen. -Allison Collier, Richmond, VA

Thank you God for pastors like Andrea and Maddie, for churches that recognize your call of women to ministry, and for all people who advocate for them, and I pray that people here will realize the damage they do to Your kingdom by denying women the opportunity to answer that call. -Melinda Dale, Belton, TX

A prayer for the women serving in SBC churches to feel supported and affirmed in their calling. To know their work is not in vain and if they choose to stay, I pray for perseverance to keep mentoring and serving the women in their circle. -Elizabeth Scioneaux, Lexington, KY

O Great Love, open our eyes to see the value in every person You call to minister in Your name. May we not make claims to know Your will without first seeking Your heart. May the grace of our Lord Jesus and peace of the Holy Spirit fill the members of the SBC and other denominations who aim to restrict Your calling to whomever You choose. In Christ’s Love, Amen. -Susan M. Poindexter, Lynchburg, VA

May God speak to you in his loving way, and give you the strength and wisdom you need each day to perform your mission for him. -Ann Hays, Urbanna, Virginia

May the men and women of the Southern Baptist Convention know the delight and the freedom of a God whose Holy Spirit blows past our human constructs and constraints. May they enter into God’s wide-armed welcome to women, and experience the joys that follow. -Andrea Huffman, St. Louis, MO

Lord, help us all to focus on things that actually matter in the Kingdom of God. -Danny Steis, Durham, NC

For all women to be able to proclaim, as did Mary Magdalene, the first evangelist, the Good News of the gospel. -Patricia Ramsden, Laurinburg NC

God forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing. -Virginia Taylor, Chapel Hill, NC

A prayer for justice for women among all Baptists. -Anonymous, Jefferson City, TN

My prayer is for the SBC to recognize that women are 50% of God’s creation and they are just as capable of leading as men. Why would our God use only 50% of the people created? The answer is simple. God wouldn’t. God doesn’t. -Tammy Snyder, Tampa, FL

May our human institutions be drawn to the depth and breadth of life in abundance rather than be limited by our lack of vision and awareness. May all that breathe be aware of the need for shared hope and generosity of spirit. -Suzanne H., Chapel Hill, NC

Lord, thank you for all women who have heard Your call to ministry and who have chosen to follow You. Thank you for Beth McCloud Thompson, Alicia Davis Porterfield, and Amy Strader Andrews who have fiercely stood for You and made a difference in my life. -Dot Seay, Greenville, NC

May the vision of Joel, repeated by Peter on Pentecost, or God’s Spirit empowering women to be full partners in ministry of the church, become a reality among Southern Baptists. -Jim Holladay, Louisville, KY

As Joel prophesied that the outpouring of Your Spirit would result in men and women who would prophecy, Lord help our men and women to boldly proclaim Your message, that Your Spirit would not be quenched. -John Burton, New Market, TN

O Lord, empower women who do not know how or are too afraid to follow their God-given calling. Give them strength, courage, and peace to be who you created them to be and to do what you created them to do for such a time as this. Amen. -Rev. Tracey Pugh, Franklin, VA

I pray for freedom, equality, and joy for women–and for everyone–in ministry. -Guy Sayles, Asheville, NC

Lord, we ask that all Baptist churches recognize women as ministers in service to their churches and to You, Lord. -Anonymous, Beaufort, SC

A prayer for family unity. -Lynda Hunter Hopkins, Greensboro, NC

Dear Beloved Child of God, God has great plans for your life. You are going to do great things for God! -Anonymous, Rome, GA

Please lead those who are opposed to women in ministry to understand that, by being women, they bring a uniqueness to our understanding of the faith that men might not perceive because they are men. Amen. -Rev. Sidney E. Rodriguez, Clarksville, VA

A prayer for women who are oppressed. May they find strength, peace and freedom. -Jerry Chiles, Raleigh, NC

Lord, we call upon you to continue to affirm women who are gifted, called and willing to serve in ministerial positions where you have led them and where there is a need. May they be affirmed in spirit, in impact and by those who witness their success in ministry. -Kate Hall, Raleigh, NC

With much gratitude I praise God for the wonderful work of Rev. Candace McKibben who showed me how powerful women in ministry are. -Rebecca Brockwell, Peoria, IL

A prayer for justice for women among all Baptists. And a prayer for all women who have heard God’s call to ministry and want to fulfill that call in a church and/or denomination that has raised them to hear this call. No one but God has the right to say that call by God is not valid!! We should all be thankful for them and encourage them in their ministry! Thank you God for your loving kindness and call of these women. -Cindy Mallard, Zebulon, NC

May each woman that you have called, Lord, hear that call. May the places she should live out her call be open and affirming to her. May the woman find herself surrounded by people who love her and support her. May each woman that you have called, Lord, be able to live out that call and serve you faithfully. -Angela Zimmerman, Martinsville, VA

Creator of all, I pray that your creation will be honored and your call upheld for women and men alike. Let us “put on love, the bond of perfect unity” (Col. 3:14) and be messengers of the Gospel, both male and female. -Carolyn Yeldell Staley, Little Rock, AR

Lord God, thank you for the women who have answered your call to ministry, and for more churches to understand that Christian service is based on gifts and calling rather than gender -Danny Chisholm, Clinton, TN

Lord, at Pentecost you told us that you empowered your sons AND your daughters to prophesy. We pray that the Southern Baptist Convention would truly believe it. -Daniel Glaze, Richmond, VA

Lord, help us shake loose of the fears, commitments, false narratives, leaders, and structures, which hinder women whom you call to ministry. -Mike Smith, Knoxville, TN

May the vision of Acts 2 where men and women alike speak the gospel be true in our time. -Marvin Cameron, Kingsport, TN

A prayer of gratitude for the strong women who mentored me in ministry and for the churches that affirmed my ministry. And for eyes and hearts to be open to God’s leading. -Rev. Beth Brittain, Belmont, NC

I give thanks for the courageous women who answered the call before me and paved the way for me to serve. -Stella Lail Perrin, Larnaca, Cyprus

A prayer that all will work for the equality, justice, and affirmation of all women. -Betty Boyd, Henderson, NC

Good and gracious God, I pray that all women will be freed from the oppressive lies that keep them from full discipleship in Christ and that all men will be freed from the oppressive lies that they must be in charge of women’s discipleship. -Ronda Stewart-Wilcox, Lawrenceburg, KY

We pray for those churches where women are not seen as leaders called by God. We pray the people in these congregations may experience the love and leadership of God through women and come to know God leads and speaks through all. -Anonymous, Winston Salem, NC

A prayer that women will know that they are enough in our Lord’s eyes to proclaim His love, mercy and grace to all people without patriarchal oppression. -Nealia Brunson, Gastonia, NC

Lord, may the actions of those who say they affirm women in ministry match their words, and may they be willing to be reflective and to do work that needs to be done. -Anonymous

We pray for courage for men to confront their own and their colleagues’ patriarchal ways of being in the world, and to go through the necessary transformation to be better. -Steven Goulstone, Wellington, New Zealand

May God open the eyes and transform the hearts of those who oppress women who are called by God to serve Christ in all aspects of ministry. -Anonymous

God of Grace and Mercy, I pray all women, within the SBC, will still have a voice in the male-dominated denomination. May they continue to hear your call into ministry and not be discouraged. I pray for their courage to stand up and be counted as chosen by God. -Rev. Donna Manning, Fort Worth, TX

Lord, we pray that those who confuse what has happened to women in culture (because of sin) as God’s will for women will see that you, God overruled culture to use women such as Miriam, Deborah, Hulda and Jesus and Paul did the same as with the Samaritan woman, the woman with the issue of blood, and Phoebe. -Dorothy Sample, Flint, MI

God, we are made in your image and called to join in your re-creation. Hear our prayer and break the chains of oppression. Lead the people of the SBC to create a world where women ministers are valued and lifted up for who we are in Christ. -Susan Quisenberry-Allen, Danville, KY

We give thanks for God’s feminine voice to us all. May we heed God’s call! -Kevin Meadows, Roanoke, VA

I pray for the Spirit to empower Baptist men, especially those serving as pastors and leaders, to speak up with courage in voice and action for women called to ministry and to welcome them as equal partners in leadership and service. -Cynthia Insko, Georgetown, KY

O God, we thank you for Julie Pennington-Russell, Hannah Coe, Andrea Huffman, Angie Fuller, Christy Edwards, and Tamara Everly, who accepted Your call on their lives and who, in turn, are inspiring new generations of women to lead in Baptist life as You have called them. -Katie Jo Wheeler, Kansas City, MO

Loving God, we pray for little girls, teen girls, and women who long to follow you in any way you may call. May they overcome the obstacles that humankind places in front of them. -Amy Whittington, Benson, MO

I pray for Baptist fathers to stand up for their young daughters who may one day feel the call to ministry. -Pat Weaver, Hewitt, TX

We pray that women will be given many more opportunities to serve you as they feel called. -Carolyn Blevins, Jefferson City, TN

To the God of Deborah, Hagar and Mary: thank you for the SBC church that taught me that God loves all and all are created in God’s image, that taught me to love Scripture and find God’s plan for my life. May they heed the bold implications of their teaching. -Jennifer Hawks, McLean, VA

Lord, thank you for calling women to be ministers who follow you. Today, I am grateful for the ministry of Rev. Karen Metcalfe Eickoff, associate pastor for discipleship, at Trinity Baptist Church. Thank you for gifting her to be a pastor who teaches the Word and loves people. Hear our prayers. -Kay Bissette, Raleigh, NC

God of justice and love, I thank you for the women who have ministered in my life and pray that you will encourage all the women who serve you faithfully and minister in your name. -Emily Prevost, Temple, TX

Lord, thank you for calling women to lead nowadays as you did in Bible days, and may there be a peaceful and unified result as we serve together to reach our world. -Danny Bryson, Hot Springs, AR

I pray that all Baptist women called to ministry find strength to persist in living out their calling and sharing God’s extravagant love with all, knowing that as they are created they are gifted, and the world needs their gifts. –Rev. Paula Womack, Raleigh, NC

God, we lift up our voices to pray for your people. We pray specifically for women who are called to serve you in various capacities. We pray for their strength and peace in who they are as a child of God. We pray for those that are stumbling blocks to them in their ability to carry out their calling. We thank you God for those that support and uplift all women in ministry. I thank you for the women that molded me spiritually, especially Janet Jasper. Amen -Rev. Scarlette Jasper, Somerset, KY

Creator God, thank you for the women in ministry you have called who have helped shape my life and ministry. I pray you will continue to call out women from across the world to serve and pastor and lead with your spirit of courage and love. Amen -Rev. Sharon Felton, Frankfort, KY

I pray women ministers will see the day when their gender is not a main focus of their ministry. -Amanda Taylor, Clinton, TN

May you hear and receive this wisdom from the ancients: Women hold up half the sky. May you hear and receive this prophecy from a contemporary: All – men, women, children, churches, the world – will suffer if women’s voices and callings are stifled. God needs everyone. -Nancy Plott Williams, Richmond, VA

Thank you, our Creator and Redeemer, for pouring out your Spirit upon your daughters, calling and equipping them to be pastors and teachers in the service of Jesus Christ. Open our eyes, ears and hearts to recognize your power at work in and through our sisters! -Stan Slade, Royersford, PA

Lord, we ask that women seeking to be in ministry feel your love and grace. -Keene Irwin, Mechanicsville, VA

Creator God, help us to see each other the way you see us and to love each other the way you love us. Embolden us to continue the good work of Love in this world through every gender, age, sexual orientation, race, and ability. Amen. -Rev. Amy McClure, Winston Salem, NC

Lord, thank you for calling women first to love You that we might know You, to pastor that we might follow You, to preach that we might hear You, and to teach that we might become more like You. Bless and sustain the daughters You call to this work of ministry for the sake of Your name and the saving of many lives. -Lori Myers Berry, Southlake, TX

God, make paths clear for women to be included in ministry, as ministers, pastors, teachers, leaders. I pray specifically for safety and peace. I am thankful for those women in my life who are ministers and have had great influence on my spiritual development! Wanda Kidd, Ka’athy Chapell, Patti Lingafelt, Virginia Taylor, Velma Ferrell, Regina Keener, Mari Wiles, Taylor Miskel, Amanda Allard. -Renee Bridges, Cary, NC

May people of all genders have ears to hear Your voice moving in us—from the persistent whispers of Your calling in our hearts to the loud shouts for equity in our world. -Rev. Erin Phelps, Louisville, KY

Lord, please help everyone to recognize the gifts that women bring to the ministry of the Gospel. May women be affirmed and encouraged to do your work. -Anonymous, Winston Salem, NC

Creator God, prune away the dead branches of your vine which hinder gifts to you from any people. -Tonya Vickery, Cullowhee, NC

Lord, clear our confusion about what your Word teaches in regard to women. Give us eyes to see the whole of your Word, not just a few sentences out of context. May your Spirit convict us when it’s not really about Scriptural fidelity, but power. Renew our minds. Reform us. -Deirdre LaNoue, Irving, TX

My prayer is for God’s will to be done so that all should come to know him. May the Baptist Organization do what is right in God’s eyes; that all are created in His image. -Anita Cabiness, Shelby, NC

Gracious Abba who created us in our mothers’ wombs, breathed your Spirit into us that we might have Life Abundant, calls us each by name and orders the steps of our days and our nights according to your purposes, we lift anew our whole hearts in praise, adoration, and thanksgiving as reminder not only to ourselves of who we are but also as reminder to the world of who YOU are. Infuse all who know you with new wisdom and intensified power. Lead all of us this day not into thoughts and actions that separate us from kindred and divine. Lead us instead deeper into the Reality of YOU that we may widen our affirmations of love and together transform the world into the reflection of the kingdom you desire. Amen. -Dr. L.A. Andrews, Panama City, FL

Thank you for the bold women who have answered your call to ministry. The seeds they planted are still bearing good, good fruit to this day. -Rev. Kari Baumann, Greensboro, NC

God who empowers all persons who seek to spread the good news of salvation offered freely, strengthen the women in the SBC to stand up for the unrestricted opportunities to serve within and without your church. Amen. -Rev. Dorothy Hartzog, Clarksville, TN

Spirit of justice, carry our voices of support to anyone who has been silenced. May we never settle into feeling like we have arrived at an answer when our own communities affirm women in ministry. Keep us always moving toward justice and equity. -Rev. Ashley Robinson, Decatur, GA

I pray the SBC participants will open their hearts and hear God’s call not to judge the people of God who hear and want to respond to His call! -Anonymous, Richmond, VA

God of inclusion. We thank you for the women at the tomb who proclaimed your resurrection first. May all women called by you continue to proclaim the good news of Christ. -Adele Henderson, Rolesville, NC

God of Hope, Protect and prosper the women who struggle to live into your calling. Thank you for their courage. Encircle them with the strength of the faithful and Spirit guidance. And where minds lack understanding and unity, send your Spirit of Love and Grace to enlighten. Amen. -Beth McConnell, Columbia, SC

Creator of All: Change the hearts and open the minds of those who limit Your kingdom. Give courage to the girls and women who hear Your voice calling them to join Your work on earth. Grant us all grace. Amen! -Kathy Thompson, Glendale, KY

A prayer for God’s amazing and abundant love to be experienced equally by each person through each person because of one person – Jesus. -Joyce Oliver, Louisville, KY

Calling God, awaken ALL your people to the truth that your call is for ALL people, girls and boys, women and men, all of us made in your image and called to your ministry. Lord, hear our prayer! -Stephen Cook, Memphis, TN

Lord thank you for the women who have ministered to me my entire life both lay and ordained. I pray that we will not limit you by declaring who can spread your word and show your love. I pray that we will all realize the value and ability of all people to be vessels and Messengers of your love, mercy and grace. -Jim Bridges, Cary, NC

To my fellow clergywomen – my prayer is that you know deep in your bones that God has called you, that you are more than worthy and you are enough. -Carolyn Dugan, Randolph, WI

In the name of Jesus, bind us together with cords of love and peace that cannot be broken. -Kathryn Johnson, Cleveland, OH

A prayer for justice for women among all Baptists. -Marie Graeper, Rutherfordton, NC

Holy God, I pray for those who are called that they will be affirmed and supported in their calling. -Dianne McNary, Little Rock, AR

Heavenly Father, may you protect the women who will be affected by this decision. I pray you heal my heart and the hearts of many who were taught as little girls that God calls us to minister in His name and now have men say that is wrong. May fear have no power over the lives of women across the nation. May your love reign in all we do! -Rev. Sherry Murdock Edwards, Winston Salem, NC

Lord, may we never forget and always honor the early women of BWIM who preached and ministered with little support and enormous opposition. -Jack Glasgow, Zebulon, NC

May women find communities of faith where they are fully embraced and empowered as image bearers of the Creator, inspired and gifted to serve Jesus in the fullness of their calling. May men arise in advocacy of women, affirming the full equity of women in ministry until the justice of God becomes known throughout the world. -Dr. Patrick Wilson, Rolla, MO

God of ALL, we ask for open hearts and raised voices to affirm ministry giftedness in women and forgiveness for those who seek to disenfranchise any work of God’s Spirit among humans. -Linda Pigott, Daytona Beach, FL

God, you told us that you will pour out your Spirit on ALL flesh. And that our sons AND OUR DAUGHTERS will prophesy. Help us to believe that and to celebrate that. Amen. -Dr. Karen Massey, Atlanta, GA

Lord, Help us all realize that accepting all people means we see all people as our equals. Amen. -Tom Denton, New Bern, NC

Dear Heavenly Father, I thank you for women in ministry like my friends Christi and Nina, and my dear daughter Gracie, and I pray for the eyes of the SBC to be opened to the truth of how You would use women in partnership with men to bring about Your purposes. -Faith Woods, Waynesville, NC

Gracious God, we ask you for strength, wisdom, and courage. We give thanks for the ways that you have equipped women throughout time to proclaim your holy words to the world around them. May the world recognize your work through holy women even now. -Rev. Geneece Goertzen, Waco, TX

God, Thank you that from the beginning you made us male and female. Thank you for the gifts that you give each of us and ask us to use our gifts to build your Kingdom here on earth. The church is your idea and we need each of us to serve in a way that we are gifted. Thank you for allowing us to be your children, we ask that you will speak in the minds and hearts of the voters to allow both men and women to serve with their gifts. Amen. -Rev. Dr. Dixie Potratz Lehman, Sioux Falls, SD

Lord we as women know that you love us and support our efforts to answer your call and be leaders for you in our communities and churches. Of all places on earth, the Christian church should be the most significant place of healing and hope — the place where women experience the joys of being respected, appreciated, esteemed, included, and celebrated. After all, God Himself made women in His own image. When women are put down the image of God is tarnished since we are all created in His image. I pray for inclusivity rather than exclusivity from the SBC. -Leslie Parreco, Stevensville, MD

Father, forgive those who have put their own interpretations and opinions ahead of your Kingdom work. Help them be humble, repent, and actively support the women who are called to serve in your name in any capacity. Help us all not to grow weary in doing good.  -Anonymous, Dallas, TX

Dear Jesus, Thank you for the female clergy who have ministered to me. Thank you for calling and gifting women with the gift and responsibility of sharing Your love. May we all trust that Your will and Your plan are much bigger than any box we try to put You in. -Eileen Hatch, Fayetteville, NC

Lord, I pray that during the SBC the men and women there will let your spirit show them that you don’t fit in the box they want you in. The one that only men can proclaim your love to others. You have called all of us to follow you in all the ways you have called us, be that as a Pastor, Preacher, Counsel, Deacon, or Shepherd. That call comes from you not them and you have the final say so. As women called by God may we continue to survive as your children following your will not man’s. -Linda Kay Dexter Swann, Sachse, TX

Gracious God, I pray for all the young girls You keep calling to ministry. As they grow, provide for them women who model leadership and service, men who show respect and support, and churches that affirm their gifts. Encourage them. Keep them ever brave and determined, yet tender and true. -Anonymous

God of all people, may we embody your love which proclaims and has modeled that in Christ there is no male or female. May we all be one. -Richard Seagle, New Bern, NC

Blessed be the women who have paved the way for younger generations to courageously and boldly take up their calling. -Anna Parish, Raleigh, NC

Let the words of all of our mouths and the meditations of all of our hearts be acceptable to all in thy sight, O Lord, our Strength and our Redeemer. -Rev. Stephanie Nash, Lubbock, TX

God of love and light. Thank you for the women who have made my path and the pathways of other women in ministry a bit easier. I give thanks for their boldness, and for the men who stand in solidarity and support. Shine your light into the hearts of the misguided souls who choose to place limitations on your Word and work. -Christi Hollifield, Lake Junaluska, NC

Lord, I pray that all those in the SBC find the courage and the boldness to affirm a woman’s sacred calling by God to serve in your name wherever she is called. I pray that there will be men bold enough to advocate for women in the ministry. -Lisa Hagler Shinkibs, San Antonio, TX

God, help Your church to recognize, affirm, and celebrate the myriad ways in which You call all kinds of people into every kind of ministry. -Anonymous, Charlottesville, VA

God who Sees, thank you for the churches and organizations who have sheltered and encouraged me to pursue your calling on my life. I pray for bold allies in spaces where harm is happening over the inclusion of God-called people so that your Church can grow to love our neighbors better. -Jordann McMahan, Richmond, VA

I pray for women in the SBC to find freedom from patriarchal ideas and actions. I am grateful for many women in ministry who have made a difference for me. -Anonymous, Winston-Salem, NC

May all persons know themselves as beloved and honor others as beloved, all equally created in the image of God. -Rev. Anne J. Scalfaro, Denver, Colorado

Lord God, open the hearts and minds of the men of the Southern Baptist Convention to Your will, so that they will embrace Your daughters as their fellow-laborers in the Kingdom, and encourage and lift up your daughters to obey you, God, rather than men. -Jennifer Boone, Winston-Salem, NC

Holy God, in the name of Jesus, awaken all hearts to the biblical truth that You call women and men equally to pastoral ministry. Shield women pastors & ministers from the ugliness of unkind words and treatment. Comfort and heal those hurt by this decision. Thank you God for all the women past, present and future, who have obediently pastored and led for You so faithfully! Please silence evil and empower Your daughters to resolutely lean into the calling You have placed on them, and may no church or denomination hinder this. Lead us women in ministry to live out 1 Corinthians 16:13-14 and stay on our guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong, and do everything in love. -Rev. Jennifer C. Mullins, Richmond, Virginia

Creator, be with all women in Baptist life, affirming their callings and passions. Let them know they are equally called, equally equipped, and equally loved by God. Because the call does not come from people, it comes from the Lord alone. -Rev. Delaney Metcalf, Raleigh, NC

For women whose callings are constantly questioned and doubted, we pray they find faithful supporters and reminders of Your assurance. -Mary Kaylor, Winston Salem, NC

Giving thanks for the witness of my grandmother, who asked me to preach in her SBC church, and praying that the Holy Spirit who came upon all at Pentecost may be recognized and celebrated in women and girls in the SBC. -Kate Hanch, O’Fallon, MO

For the many women who taught us as GA’s, and lead us from pulpits and lecterns we give thanks, and pray that the lessons that they shared will be in the hearts and minds of all who gather here. Our lives and our faith are richer for all of the women who have led and continue to lead us. -SaraAnne Hancock Burgess, Richmond, VA

Gracious and loving God, sustain those whose calls You initiated, yet who face continued obstacles in the forms of our fallen views and systems. Open doors, windows, even cracks in the brokenness for Your light to shine through them. -Jennifer Sanborn, Tariffville, CT

God may your call for women and girls be louder than doubt. May encouragement be more present than fear. May empowerment be easier than adversity. -Rev. Carin Daniels, Youngsville, NC

It has to stop now, Lord. It simply has to stop. Those who profess to be yours cannot continue to interpret your call as it suits them best. It is your call. Your awakening. Your empowering. Your love. May all who say yes to your call be energized by your love and may you continue to call our name. Amen and amen. -Katrina Stipe Brooks, Orlando, FL

Lord, may the children and youth among us confidently know that your call transcends patriarchal ideals and that girls and women are also made in your image. Lord, help us hold ourselves accountable for perpetuating anything other than affirming God’s call of women into ministry. Thank you for the women ministers who have boldly said yes to your call, we know you better because of their faithfulness. -Molly Dean, Mt. Holly, NC

Acts 5:38-39 says, “Therefore, in the present case I advise you: Leave these men alone! Let them go! For if their purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail. But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting against God.” I believe this is true for the WOMEN CALLED by God and pray now that SBC will leave these WOMEN ALONE, or they may be fighting against God! -Rev. Kristen Tucker, Smithfield, NC

I thank God for His calling on my life and on the lives of other Baptist women. -Anonymous

Our good and most gracious God, guide and bless the work of your church through each person you have called to lead. May the women at the center of conversations these days experience overwhelming goodness, peace and love as only you can give. -Debbie McDaniel, Huntsville, AL

God, the maker of each of us, thank you for calling each of us according to your good purposes. May each of us be encouraged to live out your calling on our lives. In the mighty name of Jesus. Amen. -Kim Wyatt, Raleigh, NC

Father God, have mercy upon these who condemn me for my gender in spite of having been reared alongside of them from infancy, hearing the same sermons and knowing the same God and the Spirit which called me to this ministry. -Anonymous

Lord, we pray for women ministers and leaders in the SBC, seeking Your liberation from patriarchal ideas and actions. Grant them strength, wisdom, and courage to lead with confidence. Surround them with support and understanding, fostering a spirit of equality and respect. Let Your love and justice prevail. Amen. -Alberta L. Barrett, Killeen, TX

Thank you Father that YOU are God, and it is within YOUR story that we find hope and purpose! You are the one in whom all our hope rests. -Caroline Poe, Fort Worth, TX

–from your Presbyterian sister in ministry, I pray you remember that you are not second-class citizens of the kingdom. You are beloved, and you are called. -Burnetta Armour, Cleveland, GA

May the Holy Spirit fill the convention with “Sofia’ wisdom, recognizing the untapped wealth of creativity, knowledge, grace and love embodied in women who study, teach and preach God’s Word. AMEN. -Judy Grieve, Clarks Hill, SC

It appears our SBC brothers are very fearful of women, unlike Jesus, whose resurrection was first revealed to women. So, we pray for our brothers to be healed of their fear, support their sisters and vote for fairness in ordination. -Marian Moseley, Augusta, GA

Lord of all, touch the hearts and open the minds of those making decisions and policies for SBC so that they may know and follow your will not their own. -Michelle Loyd, Archdale, NC

In the name of Jesus Christ who called all children to him and that none be forbidden, I pray that no child of any age that God calls be obstructed by any man. May storms of the Holy Spirit raze any barriers constructed in their way. -Rev. Chris Crowley, Richmond, VA

God of Celebration, today we thank you for seasons of affirmation…for the confirmation of calling that is revealed and lived out in meaningful work, loving community, and abundant joy! -Terri Byrd, Alpharetta, GA

God, I pray that your spirit will be felt and that all women called by you to do good work would find places to serve. -Anonymous, Baton Rouge, LA

God loves everyone no matter what gender, color, ethnicity, social standing and sexual orientation! My prayer is for the world to live and love like Jesus did! -Joni Crowe, Frankfort, KY

Creative Lord, remind us that we cannot restrain the vessels of your ministry. -Anonymous

May the Holy Spirit work through the voting people to open their minds to the many contributions women make in their ministries. -Anonymous, Augusta, GA

Thank you God, for my pastor, Rev. Dr. Martha Kearse. Thank you for the witness of her preaching, for her pastoral care, and for our friendship with her. -Rev. R. Todd Blake, Lynchburg, VA

For faithful Baptist pastors like Rev. Martha Kearse, Rev. Mimi Walker, Rev. Colleen Holtz, Rev. Katrina Brooks, and so many others who have touched my life, I give thanks. For countless graduates of Southern Baptist Seminaries who no longer find their seminaries supporting them in their call, I pray for comfort. -Wyatt Miles IV, Atlanta, GA

I pray God dismantles the fear that upholds systems of oppression to reveal the life-giving freedom on the other side, for all of us. -Rev. Stephanie Cooper, Austin, TX

Holy One, you who create all people to bear your image; we lift to you the prayer of the Blessed Virgin Mary. May the powerful ones who seek to hinder women, called to preach and teach the Good News, be brought down from their thrones. In your Holy Name, AMEN. -Rev. Dr. Elizabeth Nance-Coker, Columbia, SC

For all those, especially women, who have helped shape my faith and call, I am grateful. May we see God’s image in all people and may we support every person as they follow God’s call in their lives. -Mark Snipes, Richmond, VA

On this day, O Lord, when the eyes of Baptists are focused on this assemblage, watching to see what decisions are made, may leaders rise up who will bless and affirm the women pastors in the SBC as they face the denial of Christian justice. Soften the hearts of the patriarchal movement and bring about peace. Amen. -Reba Cobb, Louisville, KY

I pray for girls and women in churches affiliated with the SBC to know and believe God does not limit roles for women or intend any ministry position or church leadership role to be denied to them. -Anonymous, Morrisville, NC

Most Gracious God, may the power of your Holy Spirit breathe strongly upon all of your children. -Rev. Debra Griffis-Woodberry, McCormick, SC

We pray for the oppression women have felt and faced to be removed and only uplifting and affirming words of support be spoken and felt, now and for generations to come. -Rev. Hazel Thomas, Arlington, TX

Through the gentle (or jarring) work of the Spirit, may all Christians no longer be conformed to the sexist patterns of this world that exclude the voices, vision, and vocation of women, but be transformed by the renewing of their minds to see God’s good and pleasing will for all people. -Daniel Johnson, Memphis, TN

I lift prayers of gratitude for women who answer the call to ordained ministry and pray God’s blessing upon them, the churches who support them, and the children of God of every age who they serve, lead, and love. -Adam Tyler, Keysville, VA

God, may the Baptist men who claim to support women exercise advocacy equal to the courage of women who have followed your call to ministry. -Marv Knox, Durham, NC

A prayer for my church, Baptist organizations, and other Baptist denominational groups to take more action in affirmation of women in ministry! -Anonymous

God who breathes divine mystery into being, protect the ministry of Baptist women who serve out of your deep love, amplify the witness of Baptist women who preach out of your abiding spirit, and change the hearts of those tangled up in broken ideas and warped teaching. Redeem us still. -Mary Elizabeth Hanchey, Durham, NC

God, help us to live into your promise fulfilled at Pentecost, that our sons AND daughters will prophesy … that on your servants, both men and women, you have poured your Spirit, and let no person nor human organization quench your Spirit nor diminish that call. -Ben Winder, St. Petersburg, FL

God of justice and relentless grace, pour out your spirit on to every woman who will hear that her calling is invalid by the Southern Baptist Convention. Remind her, again and again, that she is equipped, affirmed, and needed in the kin-dom God. Open doors for women to serve in every single ministry position available to a man. Usher in an era of equality for women in the midst of this heartbreak. Use our voices, our hands, and our feet to bring about your justice for all women, everywhere. Amen. -Leah Anderson Reed, Raleigh, NC

I pray for the power of the Holy Spirit to transform the ideas that women cannot be pastors and spiritual leaders. We cannot limit the power of God and whom He chooses to lead His churches. I also pray for the spiritual blindness to be removed from those that think this way to allow the gospel of Jesus Christ to be shared throughout the earth. -Michael Mugge, Rockledge, FL

May all of our sisters in Christ know that their unique gifts and callings are valid and empowered by the work of the Spirit, and may those who would attempt to restrict their calling recognize the expansiveness of God’s kin-dom. -Rev. Lauren McDuffie, Henderson, KY

God, bring comfort and healing to your daughters who have been used, abused, manipulated, and lied to by the church. -Hannah Brown, Waco, TX

Loving God, may ALL those whom you call to proclaim the good news of Jesus be able to respond fully and joyfully. May they hear and follow your voice above all others and be equipped with a spirit of relentless love. -Sarah Wilson, Henderson, NC

Gracious and all-inclusive God, please bless, preserve and keep all those you call to ministry, whether male or female, and help us find ways to affirm with gratitude those special women in ministry who courageously respond to your call. -Martha Medley, Martinsville, VA

May anyone clinging to ecclesiastical power repent and cling to the good news of Jesus instead. May women be set free from patriarchy and joyfully respond to their calls. -Diana Bridges, San Antonio, TX

Jesus, give us bravery to boldly step into Your promise of abundant life that includes all people in all places and at all times. -Jill Hudson, Abilene, TX

Creator God, for those females you call: enliven their hope, sustain their faith,
empower and continue their love for You, for themselves and for others. As you enrich your calling, reassure them their place of service awaits. And so it is. -Sally Murphey Morgan, Altamonte Springs, FL

My prayer is that God will use the women HE calls to boldly proclaim his word every day. May those who seek to oppose women hear God’s word that all he calls to preach have a place in the church. -Rev. Tori Freeman, Mt. Holly, NC

God of love, mercy and grace, Be ever close to those who will pray outside the SBC meeting in Indianapolis. May those who see and hear them be convicted in their hearts that the world needs women in all aspects of your work in the world. Thank you for the women who lead BWIM and for those who have encouraged me to continue on even in challenging times. -Ruby Fulbright, Newton, NC

We are grateful for women who have chosen to serve You as ministers, spiritual guides, leaders and lay workers in our church. We ask that You open the minds and hearts of all people who love You; and pray that these people will recognize women as full and equal partners in ministry. -Michele and John Phelps, Buies Creek, NC

God, we ask that you open the eyes of all who are blind to your inclusive love and calling. Please continue to give women everywhere the courage to say yes when you call us. May we know the joy of unity and equality in Christ. -Dee Ford, Pelham, AL

God thank you for revealing your great love for me. I ask you to not let any person or opinion stand in the way of hiding the reality of your great love for the women in and around these congregations. -Anonymous, Clemson, SC

God and Creator of ALL, we pray for all the women who are created in your image. May each heed your call. May each have opportunities to serve in all capacities in which they are called. May ALL of us realize that limiting women limits God. -Vicki Haydon, Alexander, AR

God who calls all of creation to share the love and the grace of Jesus Christ equally and freely, I give you thanks for the women who have pastored me. May you move among those who choose to limit women’s worth and their call. May you move their allies to be louder and more supportive – and to get out of women’s way to live fully into their call.  -Joshua Speight, Atlanta, GA

Loving God, For the women you have called and equipped to share your love – may they go boldly and proudly to wherever that calling may be, despite those who think them unqualified. Grant them peace in the face of conflict, of distrust, and questioning your calling in their lives. For the people and structures that seek to limit you, your work, and your calling in the lives of women, give them a humble heart and an open mind to see how they hurt, not help, these precious siblings in their own gospel work. -Amy Oliver, Birmingham, AL

Father Almighty, May all the damages done by toxic patriarchy be redeemed and transformed by Your hand for the glory of Your kingdom and the healing of the world. -Carrie Miller, Lebanon, MO

From my very beginning within the fellowship of Christ’s love, I was held, guided, encouraged and directed by Baptist women in leadership, who answered the sacred call to tell others about Jesus; I thank God our Father for their boldness and example, praying that the Way will not be blocked. -Chris Harker, Emerald Isle, NC

Gracious, holy, and creative God– may we all know the boundless grace of your calling on our lives. Give us the courage to break down barriers previously built, constructed of our own fears and ignorance and remind us that you are a God of boundless grace and unlimited calling. -Rev. Eli Withers, Harrisonburg, VA

God, I give thanks for Terri, Sara, Tracy, Ka’thy, Stephanie, Beth, Melissa, Claudia, Susan, Kristin, Lauren, Elizabeth, Christine, Bridget, Kristen, Molly, Judith, Alyssa, and all women who have been faithful to God’s call on their lives and pastored so many. May our Baptist siblings remember the women who have helped shape their lives, and realize that by placing limits on anyone who feels called by God means placing limits on God. May their hearts be open to a bigger love and bigger pulpit this week. -Rev. Kristen Koger, Waynesboro, VA

I pray that Baptist institutions would acknowledge, celebrate, and amplify the innovative and tenacious ministry of Latinas in ministry, who have faithfully served God and our churches. That they too would be given opportunities to ministry positions in places that affirm women in ministry. -Rev. Anyra Cano, Fort Worth, TX

My prayer is for all to understand that all gifts that are given by God to whatever gender is intended for use by that person. Some of the best lessons I have ever heard have been from females, and some of the most brave initiative movements have been made by women. -Anonymous, Pelham, AL

A prayer of gratitude for the faithful following of Christ by Richmond’s First Baptist Church who recently took action and voted to sever ties with the SBC in order to stand with women in ministry. May we all continue to become bolder advocates for women in ministry. –Lacey Wondree, Richmond, VA

GOD OF MERCY I give thanks for the eight women you called, my Baptist Church ordained and who have served my Church. I pray that the men who are messengers at the annual meeting will open their minds to your will and vote for SBC to support the call and service of women in ministry. IT’S TIME. -Pat Tennison, Kansas City, MO

Lord, I am grateful for the example of strong women who are friends in Christ, Pastor Dee Ford and Rev. Jill Hudson. I pray that you will strengthen them and all women who seek you. -Donna Fitch, Calera, AL

Gracious God! For the profound gift of the women You called to be pastors-teachers, I give thanks. Continue to anoint them with Holy Wind and Fire as they preach and teach. Through Jesus Christ their Lord. Amen. -Jimmy Gentry, Rome, GA

I am thankful for the history of strong women in our local church and for our decision to become a CBF church. Please guide SBC leaders to affirm women in every position. Please unite us all to work together. -Anonymous, Laurinburg, NC

I pray for the Southern Baptist church I was raised in, that they would acknowledge the holiness that can be found in the leadership of women, and that they would cultivate a sense of calling in the little girls that are being formed within their congregation now. -Abby Sizemore, Louisville, KY

For God’s continued calling of girls and boys, women and men as ministers of the Gospel and for our strong affirmation of those called. -Anonymous

May all women who are called to serve our God be vested with their pastoral authority, and led by the Spirit’s power to reach the world for Christ. -Rev. Deb Vaughn, Montgomery County, MD

Gracious Lord, May your Spirit remind all who hear the words from this convention that your call is more powerful than any group’s decision. Continue to open doors for all who feel called to serve you, may they know your love and affirmation. -Caitlin Childers Brown, Macon, GA

Wise and loving Lord, thank You for calling women to serve in Your Kingdom. I am thankful that You called them while you walked among us, and that You continue to do so today. Your church continues to flourish because they, Your children, have said “Yes” when You called. -Robert Canoy, Shelby, NC

God, please help us to remember that we are chosen, anointed, and ordained by you and only you. Those who disagree with your choice are not arguing with us but you. -Kelli Kirksey, Inman, SC

Lord God, help open the eyes and hearts of those in conflict. Those that are close to knowing you are a God of All people. There is not male or female or any other before you, for we are all one in Christ Jesus. We are Christ’s, we are Abraham’s offspring, heirs according to promise. Simply, those persons who are called and predestined for your service are simply known as your chosen.- grace and peace. -Joy McLaughlin, Birmingham, AL

My prayer is that all Baptist women called to ministry are honored and affirmed. In the spirit of understanding and unity, May God convict all of us to listen to one another and seek understanding over being right. May the members of the SBC remember that Jesus first sent the woman at the well to tell her neighbors, welcomed Mary and Martha into ministry, and traveled with Mary Magdalene. Women have always been a part of this story. -Michelle Steele, Fort Worth, TX

Forgive us, Lord, for the times we have failed to acknowledge and affirm the gifts and callings You have given. We repent for the ways we have not fully supported women in ministry, for the moments we have allowed prejudice and tradition to overshadow Your divine calling. Help us to be agents of reconciliation and change. May we actively work to lift up, support, and celebrate all women who are called to serve You in ministerial and pastoral roles. Let our communities be places of affirmation and encouragement where every woman’s calling is recognized and valued. We ask for Your guidance and strength as we strive to honor and uphold the diverse gifts of Your children. May all who are called to pastor, preach, and prophesy do so with boldness and be affirmed in their service to You. In the name of Jesus Christ, who empowers and calls us all, we pray. Amen. -David Haun, Fredericksburg, VA

God, hear the prayers of your children. Holy Spirit, comfort your children who are hurting by the words being spoken against their calling. Thank you for the women who have encouraged and mentored me. -Trudy Johnson, Pelham, AL

Lord, I pray that through your liberating power you would release women from the lie that they cannot lead in ministry. I pray that you would continue to embolden and empower women to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ. -Joy Martinez-Marshall, Lincoln, NE

God, I am thankful for the men and women who nurtured and affirmed my call to ministry. Today I lift up all women who’s calling has been questioned. May God give them strength and may their gifts and calling be affirmed by communities of faith. -Rev. Lisa Wolfe, Abingdon, VA

O God, in this season of Pentecost, we call on your Spirit of Gentleness to bring us together today in prayer for each other, even the whole world spread out before us. We pray for your Spirit of Power to continue to call us toward the life that is ours to live in your name and in your peace. -Sharlande Sledge, Waco, TX

God of Mercy and Justice, Empower our sisters called to proclaim your name with boldness, among and beyond those who would seek to silence their calling by you. May your grace cover us all with love that sees all people as ministers of your good news (Matt. 28:19-20). -Kim Hyden, Pelham, Alabama

Habakkuk 2.3 “For the vision still has its time, presses on to fulfillment, and it will not disappoint. And if it delays, wait for it.” -Anonymous, Birmingham, AL

To our limitless God, would you soften the hearts of those who seek to hurt and divide, and would you strengthen those who boldly use their voice to seek justice? Thank you for the callings you place on each of our lives. -Emma Beaird, Waco, TX

Lord, thank you that you are bigger than a vote and that a vote by the SBC doesn’t limit my calling. May we continue to grow in courage and conviction so we may boldly speak truth in the places you’ve called us. -Amy Hall, Madison Heights, VA

God, when people place limits on the roles and ministries of the women you have called, may those limits be recognized for that blasphemy that they are. -Dan Freemyer, Charleston, SC

God, remind your people that their daughters are watching. When they meet in secret, remind them you are listening and you see who is not in the room. Give comfort to the Girls in Action emboldened to preach, teach, and lead others to Christ, but now see that your Church has no place for them. Give us courage not only to hold space for their grief but also their leadership. -Mallory Herridge, Waco, TX

May the convention realize the enormity of God’s love for ALL and the grace we ALL received through the crucified Christ. -Anonymous, Rolla, MO

I pray for courage for all women who find themselves in rooms where they, and their call to ministry, are not welcome. I pray for changed hearts around them as these women live into their calling, showing with grace just how powerful and wide the Holy Spirit’s work can be, despite others’ doubts. May we step into the hard places, step out of our own fears, and step forward together in ministry, my fellow female servants of God! Amen. -Rev. Dr. Libby Grammer, Martinsville, VA

A prayer that all children—boys and girls— will grow up knowing they can be used by God to preach and to serve as the hands and feet of Jesus in this hurting world. -Anonymous, Richmond, VA

Lord let not your servants get weary in well doing. May we continue to choose women used for your glory as you have continuously done in times past. -Dr. Toia Farmer, Fairbanks, AK

Father give the Baptist men no rest, no peace until they submit and surrender to the truth of your word that you are not a God of partiality. But a God that values both men and women to proclaim and testify of your kingdom. 🙏 Amen. -Margaret Harvey, CO 

Lord, You showed women our value when You walked the earth. Please ignite the hearts and minds of those who would contradict you with their voices and actions. -Michele Boris, Corning, NY