Date of Award

2026

Document Type

Project Portfolio

Degree Name

Doctor of Ministry (DMin)

Department

Seminary

First Advisor

Mindy Smith, DMin

Second Advisor

Sunggu Yang, PhD

Third Advisor

Leonard I. Sweet, PhD

Abstract

Significant Women addresses the need for congregational advocates who support and empower women in ministry. This advocacy is rooted in a renewed perspective on women’s roles within both Scripture and the modern church.

Research reveals that tradition, rather than theology, is the primary catalyst for gender limitations in the Church—often driven by a fear of disrupting established operations. Another key insight is that Jesus acts as the "antithesis of patriarchy," intentionally elevating and empowering women to carry the Gospel. While academic resources are plentiful, a significant "white space" exists for non-academic resources designed for laypeople and everyday churchgoers. Stakeholders most effectively internalize these truths through the experiential power of storytelling and spiritual practices such as Lectio Divina and Visio Divina.

The ministry context emerged from over a decade of experience at large, non-denominational churches in the southeastern United States As the author’s vocational journey transitioned from church staff to a calling as a writer, the project's scope broadened to include multiple churches reachable through online resources.

Significant Women is a digital initiative featuring a professional website (significantstories.com) and a comprehensive 30-session personal study. Each session combines scriptural narratives of women with spiritual practices and historical insights. Designed as a cost-effective way to reach "curious laypeople," the project aims to shift perceptions of women from background figures to significant contributors. By engaging the imagination and the heart, the project challenges both men and women alike to become active, informed advocates for women in ministry.

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