Pastor Renee Washington Gardner Makes History at UMBA

Breaking New Ground:
In a watershed moment for Baptist leadership in New York City, Pastor Renee Washington Gardner has been elected as the first female Moderator of the United Missionary Baptist Association (UMBA) of New York City, breaking a 102-year-old tradition of male leadership in one of the city’s most influential religious organizations.

The historic vote took place during UMBA’s annual session, where delegates from over 50 member churches gathered to select new leadership. Pastor Washington Gardner, who has served as Senior Pastor of Memorial Baptist Church of Harlem for the past fifteen years, secured the position with an overwhelming majority of delegate votes.

“This moment isn’t just about me,” Pastor Washington Gardner said in her acceptance speech. “It’s about every woman who has ever felt called to lead but was told to wait her turn. It’s about every young girl in our congregations who now knows that leadership has no gender when God calls you to serve.”

The significance of her election resonates deeply within the African American Baptist community, where women have historically played vital roles in ministry while being excluded from top leadership positions. Dr. James Peterson, professor of African American Religious Studies at New York Theological Seminary, notes that this election represents a seismic shift in Baptist polity.

“What we’re witnessing is the fruit of decades of advocacy for women in ministry,” Dr. Peterson explains. “Pastor Washington Gardner’s election signals that our Baptist churches are finally recognizing that gifts for leadership come from God, regardless of gender.”

As Moderator, Pastor Washington Gardner will oversee the Association’s educational and missionary programs, coordinate joint initiatives among member churches, and represent the UMBA in ecumenical and civic affairs. She has already outlined ambitious plans for her three-year term.

“We must address the pressing needs of our communities,” she stated. “From affordable housing to educational equity, from mental health services to economic empowerment – our churches must be at the forefront of both spiritual nurture and social justice.”

The election has sparked celebration among women clergy across denominations. Rev. Dr. Patricia Williams, President of the Women’s Ministerial Alliance of Greater New York, called it “a breakthrough moment that will inspire women in ministry everywhere.”

Several of Pastor Washington Gardner’s initiatives for her term include:

  • Establishing a leadership development program for young women in ministry
  • Creating partnerships with social service agencies to expand church-based community programs
  • Developing mental health resources specifically for African American communities
  • Strengthening youth ministry and educational support services across member churches

“This is just the beginning,” Pastor Washington Gardner affirmed. “There are still many barriers to break, many bridges to build, and much work to be done. But today proves that when we trust in God’s leading and stay faithful to the call, anything is possible.”

Be the first to comment on "Pastor Renee Washington Gardner Makes History at UMBA"

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published.


*