Women bishops continue to shatter the stained-glass ceiling

Texas Annual Conference

HOUSTON, Tx. — In the United Methodist Church, women have been shattering the stained-glass ceiling for years, however only 15 women bishops are currently serving worldwide. Only one female bishop has served in the Texas Conference, Bishop Janice R. Huie.

Bishop Scott J. Jones recently announced that the Texas Conference delegation unanimously endorsed the second woman from their region who could be elected bishop this November. The 36-member General and Jurisdictional Conference Texas delegation, the largest in the region, nominated the Rev. Dr. Laceye Cammarano Warner, who currently serves as the Associate Dean for Wesleyan Engagement at Duke University.

Along with a handful of other endorsed candidates, Warner will be considered for one of three open positions for bishop at the upcoming South Central Jurisdictional Conference of the United Methodist Church, November 1-5, 2022, in Houston.


“Dr. Warner demonstrates an insightful understanding of the challenges facing the United Methodist Church, but also the wonderful possibilities that lie ahead for us,” said the Rev. Dr. Tom Pace, Senior Pastor at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, Houston, who co-leads the delegation.

He went on to say that Warner recognizes the importance of rebuilding trust and accountability and working together toward broader inclusivity in the United Methodist Church.

“Perhaps most importantly, she understands how to work within complex systems to focus people on common goals, with measurable outcomes and accountability,” Pace said.

Warner first perceived her calling to be considered as an episcopal candidate through the nudging of ministry colleagues. “After a number of colleagues encouraged me to offer my name for consideration, I spent significant time in prayer and reflection, discerning God’s call to offer my gifts,” she said.

Warner’s commitment to the United Methodist Church includes serving in worldwide denominational leadership roles, along with developing decades-long relationships across the denomination.

“The primary focus of my vocation while serving at Duke Divinity School over the last 20-plus years has been service to the United Methodist Church through teaching and publishing,” Warner said. Her coursework and teaching include clergy and laity in master’s and doctoral degree programs, advanced and basic course of study schools, licensing schools, and youth academies. She has also served in senior administration at Duke Divinity for approximately 15 years leading complex systems and preparing students for pastoral ministry.


“I am honored by the Texas Conference delegation’s unanimous endorsement. I ask for your prayers for all the candidates, the delegates, and the whole of the United Methodist Church as we discern our future together.” Warner said.

Warner is from The Woodlands, Texas and lives with her family on a farm in Central Texas where they care for a variety of creatures. She is also a licensed flower farmer and enjoys cultivating sustainably grown flowers for their local church and community.

Note: Worldwide, there are 13 women residential bishops and two retired bishops in active interim assignments.

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Contact:
Shannon Martin
Texas Annual Conference
832-444-3475
[email protected]

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Religion News Service or Religion News Foundation.

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