I was preaching among one of our 97 congregations in Charlotte Presbytery several months ago 
with worship sandwiched between a class before and a meeting of leaders after. Great people. Wonderful mission. And as I was leaving to go home a gentleman stopped me in the lobby and said:
“Little Lady, you did so well today that I think it’s about time you got your own church.”
“Thank you,” I replied.
Young clergywomen everywhere recognize comments like this from people who can’t believe they are “old enough to be a pastor.” I am clearly old enough unless you have 90 year old eyes.
Today is the 35th anniversary of my ordination as a Minister of the Word and Sacrament. I indeed “had my own church” for 27 years before serving in Mid-Council and national ministry for the past 8 years. It’s been a joy and I still can’t believe that I get to do this.
Many of the people who were present at my ordination in Boston Presbytery in 1984 have passed away, but they are still with me. And I’m especially grateful that God is still with me.
Have a great week.
Image of the Rev. Margaret Towner, first clergywoman ordained in the old United Presbyterian Church the year I was born. Her clergy robe was too big – because it was a man’s robe – and Sarah Dieter, a member of First Presbyterian Church, Allentown was making last minute adjustments before worship on the first Sunday after her ordination. Photo by Alfred Eisenstaedt for Life Magazine, 1956.
A Church for Starving Artists 
I was testifying before a legislative committee in Idaho a few years back, wearing collar and stole, and was called “little lady” by a legislator. “My title is ‘Reverend’, not ‘little lady’, sir”, I interjected.
LikeLiked by 2 people
I did a funeral on Saturday where the son (age 70) of the deceased repeatedly called me “little girl.” You did a great job, little girl! That was a real nice service, little girl. Sure, he was a short man, and I was shorter than him at 5’1′ . . . but REALLY? I am a 59 year old professional minister!
LikeLiked by 1 person
We haven’t come as far as we’d like to believe……sadly.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Congratulations on 35 years of ordained ministry!
LikeLike
Thank you Deborah!
LikeLike
Happy Ordination Day (little lady/awesome pastor)! What good things God has done!
LikeLike
Thank you, my sister.
LikeLike
So worth celebrating. Congratulations.
LikeLike
What a great occasion to celebrate. Congratulations 🎉🌈💕 God is Good
LikeLike