Sunflowers of Strength: Cultivating Women Leaders in the Adventist Church
A Report from the Association of Adventist Women’s Banquet – October 12, 2024 (Loma Linda, California)
by Rebecca Barceló | 17 October 2024 |
“Would you like a sunflower?”
I glanced up from the check-in table to see Ruth Peeters, the Director of Development for the Association of Adventist Women (AAW), pinning sunflower pins onto the lapels of arriving guests. It wasn’t just the pins—every table in the fellowship hall at Loma Linda University Church was adorned with bouquets of sunflowers, accented with delicate touches of purple.
I wonder what the sunflower theme is all about, I mused, pulling out my phone to do some browsing on the AAW website. “Sunflowers keep their faces turned toward the light,” the web page explained. An apt symbol for the philosophy of AAW, I thought, reflecting on the idea of seeking affirmation from above. I read on: “Why we wear purple: Purple is a royal color. It reminds us that we are daughters of God.” The symbolism was clear—grounding our identity in God’s value and worth.
Feeling more in tune with the theme, I glanced around the room, noticing some of the “pillars of Adventism” in attendance. Among the 182 attendees were university presidents, pastors, missionaries, web evangelists, social media influencers, community organizers, and healthcare professionals—both men and women.
Though I had received scholarships from the Association of Adventist Women throughout my time in Seminary, this was my first time attending one of their banquets in person. I felt honored to be there, especially alongside my mother who worked as an educator throughout every level of Adventist education and was the first person I ever knew who had received a doctorate.
We began the evening meal, and as I turned to offer some water to the older lady sitting to my left, I squinted to read her name tag: “Vyhm… Vyhmeister…” Wait, Vyhmeister, like Nancy Vyhmeister?? I thought back to my research methods class with Dr. John Reeve in Seminary…. there was a book…. yes, she was the one….
“Hi, um…nice to meet you…I think you were the author of my research methods book when I was in graduate school,” I blurted through a half-chewed bread roll.
She looked over at me and graciously responded to my communication attempt with a smile. “That is quite probable.”
As she turned back to her meal, I stared down at my pasta wondering how not to waste the opportunity of an evening sitting next to Nancy Vyhmeister. I didn’t have long to think about it because just then, the program began and AAW President Nerida Bates took the stage, offering us all a warm welcome.
She explained that the AAW banquet is “our way of celebrating women in the Adventist church who have had blessings and successes in leadership.” Nerida also emphasized how perspectives regarding women’s talents in ministry have evolved over the years, and the important role AAW has played in fostering many of these conversations.
As she spoke, I couldn’t help but notice her intricate dress – a map of the world. She mentioned that there was a sequin on her dress for each location where a woman had been ordained as a pastor, with several more to be added this month! Respect to her, I thought. That’s a whole new level of dedication to her office!
The keynote speaker for the evening was Elder Victor Marley, President of the Norway Union and this year’s honored Champion of Justice. While AAW’s awards are mostly meant to honor women’s accomplishments, a man is awarded the Champion of Justice award each year for his work as an ally. This year, Victor was recognized for his “courage and insight in standing for equitable church leadership processes that decentralize authority, and for his support of women in ministry.”
Victor spoke about three things I anticipated and three things that took me by surprise. First, he addressed the theology of ordination, noting its deep roots and the need for significant revision. He highlighted the importance of embracing a model of the priesthood of all believers, drawing on the imagery of pre-fall Eden, where Eve was created not from Adam’s head or foot, but from his side.
Lastly, he made a bold statement: ordination should not be viewed as the ultimate goal for male ministers, because, as he put it, “If we don’t ordain equally, there’s no need to ordain at all.” (This has been the official stance of the Norwegian Union Conference since 2015, where both male and female pastors now receive a dedicatory prayer at the start of their ministry, rather than formal ordination.)
In the unexpected category, Victor shared three key points that offered a surprising and thoughtful perspective. First, he encouraged us to think well of the motives of those we disagree with, urging empathy even in conflict. Second, he emphasized the importance of being courteous and kind, noting that kindness can win friends, even among those with differing views.
Third, he called for patience, acknowledging that traditions and beliefs are deeply rooted in culture, and cultural change takes time—sometimes requiring small, incremental steps in the right direction. Ultimately, he stressed the need to stand up for an ethical church, while continuing to support the church and love those with whom we disagree.
I found it to be a refreshing perspective after years of painful church division on the topic – and during an election season, to boot.
After Victor’s speech, AAW awarded this year’s Women-of-the-Year awards to: 
Elizabeth Talbot – Speaker/Director of the Jesus 101 Biblical Institute, a media ministry of the North American Division (NAD) that provides Christ-centered Bible study resources in English and Spanish, including devotionals, studies, videos, podcasts, and audiobooks. Recognized for her effective communication and energy/focus on evangelism.
Vi Zapara – known for her philanthropic leadership and support of the Zee Medical business along with her husband, Tom Zapara. Recognized for her support of Adventist education and healthcare, and positively impacting the lives of many teachers, students, and patients.
René Drumm – Senior Research Professor of Sociology and Adjunct Professor for Social Work and the Doctor of Ministry program at Andrews University. Works as research methodologist and lead teacher for the Institute of Church Ministry at the Andrews University Theological Seminary. Recognized for her work in helping the church address and respond to abuse while fostering challenging conversations.
Silvia Scholtus, faculty emeritus at River Plate University since 1990, holds a doctorate in Theology and has authored over 30 book chapters and more than 100 articles in various languages, focusing on Seventh-day Adventist history. She is celebrated for her academic legacy and her contributions to chronicling the history of the Adventist Church in South America.
Over dessert, Nancy Vyhmeister asked about my work, and I took the opportunity to inquire about her academic interests and the many places she and her husband had visited while designing Adventist educational programs worldwide. I discovered her passion for Greek, her background in editing and research methods, and her spunky humor and Uruguayan accent when speaking Spanish. The opportunity to learn from her legacy was not at all wasted!
I was moved to hear stories of the women who have gone before me and to perceive new possibilities where I can continue in their footsteps. Not only is it a culture of inspiration to push forward toward new initiatives, but one of women supporting other women’s dreams, goals, and initiatives – often a rare sight in our culture.
At the end of the night, I asked Ruth Peeters why she spends her free time doing this work for the Association of Adventist Women when she’s actually retired and could be doing anything else. Her answer was as follows:
What moves me about being part of this association is witnessing the Holy Spirit at work through women worldwide. There’s a growing movement of women dedicating their lives to the gospel, some receiving pay while others serve out of passion. They courageously go to places where men often cannot, and their commitment inspires me. The spiritual growth and deep connection with Jesus that these women experience is remarkable, and I’m grateful to be learning about them and building connections.
Many of these women were already engaged in pastoral ministry long before we recognized their contributions. I am inspired by their stories and determination to fulfill God’s calling, despite sometimes facing hostility. Hearing about women in Africa leading churches and those in Asia who have been doing this work for years shows that their efforts are both normal and vital, even when challenges arise.
Even if I may not see women ordained or treated equally in my lifetime, I believe in the slow but steady progress. Listening to their experiences helps us find strength and hope, and it motivates me to support them in their mission.
Thank you to the Adventist women who are preparing the way for the next generations of female leaders within the Adventist church. We are deeply indebted to you and your work.
Rebecca Barceló is Creative Editor for AToday’s Advent Innovate projects and covers special events.
