When God Calls a Woman

                                      
                                      
                                            

                             

                                

 

Jerena Lee's pulpit : Jerena Lee: The First African American Woman Preacher

While women have played a role in God’s story since the beginning of creation, their contributions have often been overshadowed by narratives that prioritise men. Across many faith traditions, women have been marginalised, their voices dismissed, and their callings questioned. Many have longed to serve, some only held hope, while others passed without ever being given the opportunity. Yet, some refused to be silenced, women who chose to pursue their calling despite resistance.

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

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A Humble Beginning

Jerena Lee was born in Cape May, New Jersey, in the late 1700s. At just seven years old, she began working as a domestic servant for a white family. This shaped her resilience and prepared her for the challenges she would later face. Raised in a non-Christian household, her spiritual awakening came at the age of sixteen when she attended church and experienced a powerful encounter with the Holy Spirit.

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A Growing Call to Preach

Initially, Jerena did not aspire to preach, but she became deeply involved in church life. She later married a pastor, and over time, a strong and undeniable desire to preach began to grow within her. However, the church at the time did not permit women to preach.

Despite this, Jerena accepted God’s call on her life. When her request to preach was denied, she did not give up on her calling; she persisted. Her personal struggle reflected a broader story: the systemic exclusion of women within the church. This led her to not only pursue her calling but also advocate for women’s rightful place in ministry.

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A Journey of Perseverance

Jerena’s life was marked by hardship. After becoming a widow with two young children, she faced significant personal and financial challenges. Yet, her faith remained.

With the support of Rev. Richard Allen, founder of the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church, she was eventually allowed to preach. While he recognised her calling, many within the church did not.

To continue her ministry without restriction, Jerena became a travelling preacher. She moved from place to place, delivering powerful and spirit-filled sermons that deeply moved her audiences. Her voice, presence, and conviction began to shift perceptions.

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Breaking Barriers

Jerena Lee became the first African American woman to preach from a Methodist pulpit, challenging deeply rooted gender norms of her time. Even then, full acceptance remained out of reach.

She boldly questioned the exclusion of women from ministry, stating:

"If 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?"

Through her words and actions, Jerena challenged the church to reconsider its limitations and recognise the calling placed on women.

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A Lasting Legacy

Jerena Lee was more than a preacher; she was a pioneer. Her courage and persistence created space for women in ministry, proving that calling is not defined by gender but by purpose.

Despite resistance, she remained committed to her faith, preaching with conviction and grace. Her legacy continues to inspire, reminding us that barriers can be broken and narratives can be rewritten.

Today, we honour women like Jerena Lee—women who opened doors, challenged systems, and walked boldly in their calling.

Yes to preacher girls like Jerena Lee. ✨