MILLBROOK, Ala. — Grace Point Community Church announced Tuesday the launch of its Biblical Womanhood Ministry and the appointment of Tom Henderson to serve as director.
The initiative, designed to help women understand their God-given roles in family and church, was developed over six months by Sarah Martinez, 38, a licensed counselor and longtime congregant. Martinez presented the proposal to church leadership last October.
"Sarah's vision was exactly what we needed," said Lead Pastor James Canton. "She showed real leadership qualities in developing this."
Henderson is the church's men's ministry director. He will oversee the Biblical Womanhood Ministry with an all-male leadership team.
Canton explained the appointment: "A woman in a leadership position would send the wrong message about what the ministry is for."
Asked whether Scripture explicitly forbids women from leading women's ministries, Canton said: "It's implied. Through the principle of headship. And also vibes."
Martinez has been named to the ministry's advisory council, a non-voting body that meets quarterly.
"I'm grateful they're using my idea," Martinez said.
The ministry launches next month with the theme Knowing Your Place.