The story of God and the woman

                                      
                                      
                                            

                             

                                

 

Jerena Lee's pulpit 

Jerena Lee: The First African American Woman Preacher

Though God’s relationship with women has been present since the beginning of creation, its significance has often been overshadowed by narratives that prioritize men. Across faith traditions, women have been marginalized, their roles dismissed or undervalued. Many women have only dreamed of serving the Lord, and countless others have perished holding onto that hope. Yet, some fought against these barriers, determined to fulfil their divine calling.

One such woman was Jerena Lee, a trailblazer who refused to let societal norms dictate her faith journey.

A Humble Beginning

Jerena Lee was born in Cape May, New Jersey, in the late 1700s. At the tender age of seven, she began working as a domestic servant for a white family—a life that prepared her for the hardships and separations she would later endure. Raised in a non-Christian household, Jerena’s spiritual journey began at sixteen when she attended church and experienced a profound encounter with the Holy Spirit.

A Growing Desire to Preach

Initially, Jerena did not aspire to preach, but she became deeply involved in the church. She eventually married a pastor, and as the years went by, her desire to preach grew stronger. However, the church was unyielding, and women were not permitted to step into the pulpit.

Jerena accepted God’s call to ministry, but the clergy resisted her efforts. This rejection only fueled her determination. Recognizing the broader oppression of women, she began advocating for their rights in the church and beyond.

A Journey of Perseverance

Life was far from easy for Jerena. After becoming a widow with two young children, she faced unimaginable challenges. Yet, her faith remained steadfast. With the support of Rev. Richard Allen, the founder of the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church, she was finally given the chance to preach.

While Rev. Allen believed in her, much of the church did not. To avoid further conflict, Jerena chose to become a traveling minister. She journeyed far and wide, delivering powerful sermons that resonated deeply with her audiences. Her dynamic preaching style won over many hearts, solidifying her reputation as a remarkable spiritual leader.

Breaking Barriers

Jerena Lee became the first African American woman to preach from a Methodist pulpit, defying the deeply ingrained gender norms of her time. Yet, even as she stood in the pulpit, traditionalists in the church refused to fully accept her.

Jerena passionately believed that God called both men and women to serve:
"For the man may preach because the Savior died for him, why not the woman? Seeing He died for her also. Is He not a whole Savior, instead of a half one? As those who hold it wrong for a woman to preach would seem to make it appear."

Jerena’s unwavering conviction challenged the church’s rigid structures and paved the way for countless women who would follow in her footsteps.

Legacy of a Preacher Girl

Jerena Lee was more than a preacher; she was a revolutionary. Her courage and resilience carved out a space for women in the church, proving that faith transcends gender. Despite the opposition she faced, Jerena remained steadfast, preaching God’s word with passion and grace.

Today, we celebrate women like Jerena Lee, who opened doors for others and reshaped the narrative of what it means to serve.

Yes to preacher girls like Jerena Lee!