AFRICAN ANGLICAN BISHOPS' BOLD MOVE: CALL FOR AUTHENTIC WOMEN'S LEADERSHIP AND ATTENTION TO CLIMATE JUSTICE

 The Bishops pose for a photo after a public forum at the St. Paul's University. Photo: Dixon And iwa/ACK

Nairobi, Kenya—In a historic meeting held in Kenya on January 8–14, African Anglican women bishops—also known as the "African six"—made a forceful statement demanding authentic female leadership in the church.

The communique stressed that the church must stop its silence on gender inequality and accept the transformative power that women bring as agents of change.

"The church must remain vocal in highlighting the power of reform and transformation that women have as agents of change," the bishops said, stressing the importance of the church's active role in supporting reform and transformation.

The communication also encourages the church to recognize, encourage, empower, and mandate the laity to promote a ministry that includes everyone in their sphere of influence while supporting the common good.

  Photo: Dixon Andiwa/ACK

Africa Six called for a redefinition of the church in various ways with the theme "African Anglican women bishops embark on a journey of faith: challenging convention and leading with grace."

The bishops are committed to providing empowerment and coaching opportunities for women and men who are considering their vocation in their dioceses. They also thanked those who paved the way for the election and consecration of female bishops in Africa 

"As Anglican bishops of Africa, we reaffirm our commitment to moral and ethical leadership as shepherds to all of God's people," said a strong message in the community addressing pressing climate justice issues.

African women bishops expressed their commitment to leadership, empowerment, and the fight for climate justice in a spirit of faith and grace during this meeting, which marked a major step towards gender equality within the Anglican Church.

News Sources: https://www.oikoumene.org/news/african-anglican-women-bishops-urgently-call-for-authentic-womens-leadership