This post is part of a five-part series.
CP: Introduce yourself. Location. Current Congregation. (If not currently at a Brethren congregation, where do you worship now? What is your “home” CoB?) Occupation. Age. Did you know March is Women’s History Month? Either way, what does Women’s History Month mean to you? How do you understand your identity as a minister (priesthood of all believers)?
MS: I’m Melissa Schlecht. I am currently based out of Westerville, Ohio. My current congregation is Five14 Church in New Albany, Ohio. It is non-denominational. My home church is the Potsdam Church of the Brethren. I am a Costumer in the theatre industry. I am 23 years old. I am aware that March is Women’s History Month. This month is important to me because I like to look back at all of the women who have dreamed, achieved, and paved the way for today’s women.
CP: Is it odd to identify with a group whose name is decidedly male-sounding? In what ways does it matter? In what ways does it not?
MS: In all honesty, I don’t think I’ve ever looked at the name “Brethren” and thought that it was decidedly male-sounding. To me, “Brethren” always resonated as family. It always meant a group of people who helped raise me, who taught me about life and love and Jesus. I don’t think it matters to me that “Brethren” may sound like it favors men because that’s not what it means to me. I also don’t identify as Brethren. I’m a Christian before I am a Brethren. I can understand why others may see it in a different light and why the subject is important to them in regards to being inclusive, however, I think the root of what “Brethren” means and who identifies as such is what truly matters.
CP: What opportunities does being a Brethren woman provide you? Are there ways it restricts you?
MS: I learned to serve from a young age, and into adulthood is one of my favorite things to do at church. I’ve had opportunities to go to conferences, like NYC (National Youth Conference), and meet others who share my faith.
CP: Name a woman, Brethren or otherwise, who has inspired you and encouraged your spiritual growth.
MS: There are so many, even within my home church and the Southern Ohio District Church of the Brethren, who have done so in my life. Jeanne Hughes has always shown such a great and active faith in the way she lives her life, faces challenges, and interacts with people. She is warm, welcoming, and has a smile on her face for everyone she meets. Her steadfast and unwavering faith as she battled cancer was more inspiring than words can say. She has always been intentional in hearing about my life and what I am doing and going through. She always has an encouraging word, no matter the circumstance, and she always reminds me of the unconditional love of God and incredible plans He has for me.
CP: How can our denomination better encourage the gifts of women?
MS: Encourage women to seek leadership positions. Support them in their endeavors. Support them equally, whether they are single or married.
CP: How do you sustain yourself in the midst of those who might discredit or not listen to your voice because you are a woman?
MS: I know and stand by the fact that God made me who I am and He has placed me in an incredible career where I can be a light for Him. I know my identity as a child of God. No one can change that.
CP: How do you encourage or build up other women? What are ways that we can intentionally mentor and call young women into ministry?
MS: I listen to them. I hear them out. God has given me such a heart for young women, especially college-aged women. I remind them of their identity as a child of God and encourage them to seek His word and respond to it in their own lives. Our job as Christian mentors is to not only be in tune to the call that the Lord has placed in our own lives but to also be in tune to the call He has placed on others lives. Sometimes He places us in people’s lives in order to help them hear His call and teach them how to respond to Him.
CP: How do you lovingly respond to prejudice in and outside the Church?
MS: Listen first. Hear people out. I try to understand where they are coming from, how Christ would respond to the circumstance, and how I can respond in a way that best shows His love and teachings. I point to scriptures that can be discussed, and I try to make a safe, respectful space where a conversation can be had, whether there can be an agreement between us or not.
CP: How do you set boundaries with physical touch with men (or others if applicable)?
MS: This is actually something that God has been working a lot within me this past year. He’s done some heart and soul transformation that directly relates to this subject. When I initiate a hug, I try to make it a side hug. In any future romantic relationship, I’ve been called to have intentionally set boundaries that are discussed before even beginning the relationship. Specifically saving sex for marriage and the first kiss for the wedding day.
CP: You shared some demographic info in question one. Where does your sex or gender identity fit into the broader picture of who you are? Of your many identities, is being a woman primary? Why or why not?
MS: I would say that being a woman is a primary identity for me. That’s who I am. I was created as such. I desire to one day be a wife and a mother, which is a huge part of who I will be when that time comes.