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Brightening the Path for Women in Ministry
In a world where leadership still often reflects outdated norms, Dr. Darius Jankiewicz of the South Pacific Division (SPD) stands as a beacon of change. On July 6, 2025, during a special ceremony at The Dome convention center, Jankiewicz received the prestigious Champion of Justice award from the Association of Adventist Women (AAW) for his unwavering commitment to supporting women in ministry. This recognition isn’t just a personal achievement; it's a testament to the critical dialogue surrounding women's ordination and leadership in religious settings.
Highlighting Collaborative Leadership
Accompanying him at the award ceremony was his wife, Dr. Edyta Jankiewicz, a collaborator in advocating for inclusivity in pastoral roles. Together, they are reshaping the landscape of ministry in the South Pacific, as AAW president Nerida Taylor Bates highlighted, emphasizing their partnership in promoting theological discussions and practices that empower women. This dynamic duo not only leads by example but also encourages their colleagues within the faith community to embrace a more inclusive approach to church leadership.
Celebrating Women Trailblazers
The ceremony wasn’t solely about recognizing Dr. Jankiewicz. It brought to light incredible contributions made by women in various fields of leadership. During the event, awards were also presented to remarkable women including Anathasie Ambela Nda, the first female pastor in Cameroon whose dedication to marginalized communities has made significant impacts, and Pat Cople, who has broken barriers in engineering. Wanda Phipatanakul's groundbreaking work in pediatric medicine further showcased the diverse walks of life women are leading in the pursuit of justice in their respective fields.
Impacting Future Generations
As the ripple effects of this recognition unfold, one can’t help but wonder how this acknowledgment will inspire future generations within the Seventh-day Adventist faith community. Creating spaces where women can lead and be recognized isn’t just a social endeavor—it’s about equity in faith and leadership. This award and recognition push against the barriers too often faced in traditional religious structures.
From Recognition to Action: What’s Next?
Dr. Jankiewicz expressed immense gratitude for the award, stating, “It is an honour for me to be in the presence of so many accomplished women.” However, recognition cannot be the endpoint. For Jankiewicz and others, the journey continues—moving beyond accolades to implementing real change within their communities and congregations. As they challenge the church's status quo, this is an opportunity for church members to reevaluate their role in advocating for women.
Understanding Broader Implications
The movement towards gender equality in church leadership reflects broader societal shifts that demand our attention. This isn’t just a topic for theologians—it's an issue that transcends to all believers who wish to see a church reflective of its diverse community. Engaging in discussions about women's ordination and leadership can seem daunting; however, it serves as a necessary step toward reflecting Christ's love and inclusivity.
Your Role in Creating Change
Being part of this conversation and actively supporting initiatives for gender equality can lead to cathartic changes within congregations. Attend local meetings, voice your support for women in leadership roles, and advocate for educational projects that promote inclusivity. Change may start with recognition, but it is sustained by community action.
As a member of the Seventh-day Adventist community, you have the power to push for equitable practices within your church. Share your thoughts with others, inspire young women, and let’s work together towards a future where leadership reflects the full diversity of our faith.
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