This seminar explores the enduring call, courage, and leadership of women in the life of the Church. From Mary Magdalene, the first witness to the Resurrection, to trailblazing leaders such as Barbara Harris, Catherine Waynick, and Laura Ahrens, women have continued to teach, preach, lead, and prophetically witness often in the face of resistance.
This presentation reflects on authority, perseverance, and the movement of the Holy Spirit across generations. While contexts have changed, the challenges and the calling remain strikingly familiar. Through biblical reflection and contemporary examples, we will explore the parallel threads of faith, resilience, and divine purpose that connect women leaders then and now. The more things change, the more they stay the same yet the Spirit continues to move powerfully through women in ministry.
FACILITATORS: Dr. Paulette Blythe-Russell, is a devoted Christian, educator, and servant leader. A member of St. Martin’s Episcopal Church in Hartford since 2005, she has served as Superintendent of Christian Education, Altar Guild member, vestry member, and currently as President of the Episcopal Church Women (ECW) for Connecticut. She earned her Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Hartford in 2014. A passionate advocate for diversity and restorative justice, Dr Blythe-Russell, has supported at-risk students and young mothers in achieving academic success. An award-winning TESOL educator and mentor, her global outreach and community service continue to impact lives locally and internationally.
The Reverend Evelyn Wheeler was ordained a priest in December 2011 by the then-bishop of the Diocese of Virginia. She served in the Diocese of Indianapolis for nine years and, since her retirement, has been a supply priest in ECCT. Previously, she was a Foreign Service Officer, working in China, Mongolia, Russia, and on a variety of issues, including environmental policy, trade, energy, border security, and human resources. She graduated from Berkeley Divinity School and holds advanced degrees from Gonzaga Univ School of Law and Johns Hopkins. She loves to travel, has two cats, and reads history and theology.
Event Timeslots (1)
Session One (9:45–11:15 AM)
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