Council Oak DS receives Frances E. Willard Award
What do 19th century suffragists and 21st century women in ministry have in common? A shared common value that wherever they are, whatever they are doing and whatever gifts they have, they will lead change for good.
This was the “Do Everything” policy of the Women’s Christian Temperance Union in the late 1800s, inspired by Frances E. Willard, who believed temperance was tied to every facet of reform.
Likewise, contemporary women in ministry believe the good news is related to every facet of creation. Thus from various places, resources and gifts, women in ministry are making a positive difference for the Oklahoma Conference.
Rev. Cindy Havlik’s ministry reflects this ‘do everything’ approach. Havlik is appointed as the Council Oak District Superintendent.
She states, “[Clergywomen] are not limited because of our femaleness. God calls us and gifts us with graces to do what we are called to.”
The Commission on the Status and Role of Women (COSROW) recognizes Havlik with the Frances E Willard award because she has made a contribution to the advancement of women in the ministry of the Oklahoma Annual Conference.
Rev. Charla Gwartney, Senior Pastor at Tulsa-Faith wrote of Havlik, “She has paved the way for female clergy in her district to express our own leadership and creativity.” Others who nominated Havlik note her, “willingness to brave new ways.”
Recently, Havlik met with Rev. Katie Hill and Rev. Jennifer Ahrens-Sims, both ordained elders in the Oklahoma UMC, for the presentation of the award. Hill, the pastor at Bristow, followed Havlik as associate pastor at Tulsa-Faith before her current appointment. Ahrens-Sims serves as current chair of COSROW, which advocates for full and equal participation of women in the life and mission of The United Methodist Church.
COSROW Student Scholarship Open
COSROW is accepting applications for the COSROW Scholarship for Women in Ministry Students. The scholarship is open to women who are 1) enrolled in seminary, pre-seminary courses, or Course of Study, and 2) are connected to the Oklahoma Conference.
The application deadline is September 30, 2018.
Download the application here.