In this episode, co-hosts Rose and Jenni invite two young women serving in different ministry contexts across the United States: Rev. Cassie Carroll, head pastor of Palisades Presbyterian Church in San Diego, California, and Natalia Guzmán, Missions Faith Partnership Coordinator at National Community Church in Washington, D.C.

Rev. Cassie Carroll is the first female pastor of a 135-year-old church in San Diego, leading an older congregation. She discusses the challenges of being a younger leader in a traditional setting and how she has focused on building relationships and listening to the particular needs of the church’s neighbors. 

Natalia Guzmán shares her experience of making a significant career shift by moving to the United States to work in ministry. As someone who doesn’t speak English as her primary language and is new to the U.S. context, she talks about feeling misunderstood. However, she found that what she initially perceived as a weakness became a strength, making her more relatable and approachable to many of the people she serves.

Despite their different contexts—San Diego and Washington, D.C.—they both highlight the importance of understanding and engaging with their communities in unique ways. We hope this episode reminds you of the ways in which you are uniquely called and qualified to serve in your own context.

Listener Resources:

• If you’re a woman in ministry, we’re here to support you! Explore our curated collection of resources and specialized offerings designed to empower you in your calling. Discover more at transformingengagement.org/womeninministry

• If you are a Christian leader or pastor seeking a space for support, growth, and transformation for yourself or for your team, we invite you to participate in one of our cohort programs, called a Circle. To learn more, visit transformingengagemeng.org/circles