Woman in the Spotlight

"I stand here tonight on the shoulders of the unordained -- women who serve without affirmation or appointment. I don't stand here alone, but there is a cloud of witnesses who sacrificed, died and gave their best."

These are the words of Vashti McKenzie, Reverend, Doctor, and now Bishop. She is a true pioneer on many fronts, and she is a role model for women today, young as well as old alike. And not just women in ministry, but women in radio and business as well. Bishop McKenzie has authored several books, and like Oprah, has created viable programs to help educate and employ the disadvantaged in Africa. In addition, Bishop McKenzie works to improve the life of Africans suffering from AIDS. She is outspoken on issues few are willing to discuss. Her Ten Womanist Commandments for Clergy has inspired and empowered women in ministry everywhere.

Vashti's election as bishop has not only broken ground but it has shattered "the stained glass ceiling", a phrase coined by the Bishop herself. Bishop McKenzie is serious about the role women play in the industry of religion. She goes on to say that women can be beautiful, intelligent and used by God.

Here are Bishop McKenzie's Ten Womanist Commandments for Clergy:
1. Thou shall not compromise your femininity for the sake of the pulpit.
2. Thou shall not be intimidated by those who question your call and your right to be a woman and a minister.
3. Thou shall be wise in establishing personal relationships within the congregation.
4. Thou shall not be a superwoman.
5. Thou shall be a sister to your sister in the ministry.
6. Thou shall have African American men as brothers.
7. Be assertive, fair, and firm.
8. Thou shall not oppress others.
9. Thou shall be a role model.
10. Thou shall not take thyself too seriously.