Each Friday Baptist Women in Ministry introduces a woman in ministry, and this week we are thrilled to introduce Aline Silva-Schreiner.
Where and how are you currently serving in ministry?
Currently I serve as a Gospel Catalyst for the Academy of Preachers, itinerant preacher for the American Baptist Churches of the Central Region and the prestigious Academy of Young Preachers, and as a certified Life Coach, and a discernment coach for the Fund for Theological Exploration.
What have been some of the challenges you have faced in your ministry journey?
The biggest challenge on my ministry journey thus far is misconception both of church and non-church folks. So, let’s set the record straight by receiving the wise words of my dear friend and fellow clergy woman, Jes Kast-Keat: The pastor is a person first, a partner second, a parent third (think of “parent” broadly), and lastly, the pastor is a professional.
What brings you great joy in life and ministry?
Every time a parishioner, coaching client, friend, or stranger realizes their worth and value, beauty and place in the Reign of God. Girl, that makes me smile! It reassures me: the risk of ambiguity is worth the reward. Because of my risky choice to accept the invitation to co-create with God, they too realize they were created in the image and likeness of the Holy One.
What is the best ministry advice you have ever received?
The Spirit does not operate apart from the ego. It is in their intersecting that friction is created. It is their collaborating, in the mutual giving and taking, that friction brings forth the sparks necessary to bring about fire.