The Wesleyan and Methodist Unit of the American Academy of Religion (AAR) promotes a series of workshops and panels on various issues, bringing together scholars working on Wesleyan and Methodist Studies. In 2026, the unit is promoting a Virtual Session to discuss the history and experiences of full clergy rights for women since one of the denominations in this tradition, The Methodist Church, decided approved full clergy rights in 1956. The goal is to consider this history and recognize that many other branches of the Wesleyan and Methodist traditions across the world have embraced and promoted female clergy, pastors, and preachers long before 1956.
Scholars from different persuasions within the Wesleyan and Methodist traditions have been reflecting on the history of female leadership and ministry within Methodism and the broader holiness movements. The Virtual Session will revisit the compelling narratives that exist across the world and consider how they reveal the pioneering work of women who shattered barriers and embraced their callings, often finding strong support from their communities. Today, women continue to hold significant positions, influence, and impact within the Wesleyan and Methodist churches and institutions, but there are many other challenges to be overcome. IAMSCU supports this initiative and is planning to partner with AAR in similar events in the future. For more details, contact Rev. Dr. Hilde Marie Øgreid: Hilde.M.Ogreid@mf.no