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Women’s Ministry Advisers
The Women’s Ministry Advisers team exists to:
- The promote of gender equality and the inclusion of ordained women at every level of ministry and life in God’s Church.
- To serve as advisers to the bishops and their leadership teams, raising their awareness of concerns and issues that ordained women may be facing.
- To be an advocate for the ministry of clergy women in the diocese, enabling them to reach their full potential and flourish in ministry.
The Women’s Ministry Adviser for the diocese is Rev’d Elise Peterson, with Area Advisers for each episcopal area. The team is also assisted by ordained women who can offer support based on their areas of personal experience and expertise, including (but not limited to) motherhood and ministry, menopause, mental health, and ongoing academic education.
If you need support and encouragement, please reach out to the Women’s Ministry Advisers. The team is made up of women in ordained ministry, but if you are in lay ministry and need support, please get in touch, and we’ll work with you to find the appropriate resources.
Women's Ministry Adviser
The Reverend Elise Peterson
Phone 07888 441659 or send an email
I was privileged to be appointed Women’s Ministry Adviser by The Bishop of Chelmsford, the Rt Rev Dr Guli Francis-Dehqan, in September 2024. I have been the vicar of the Parish of Rainham with Wennington since 2020 and was ordained deacon in the Diocese of Chelmsford in 2017 and priest in 2018. Throughout my lay and ordained ministry, it has always been a passion of mine to be able to come alongside women and help them navigate the challenges of life and ministry and grow in their relationship with God.
Barking Area Women’s Adviser
The Reverend Eileen Rose
Phone 07930 269 877 or send an email
I am currently serving as an Associate Priest at Emmanuel Parish Church, Leyton, in the deanery of Waltham Forest.
My experience whilst working in a previous secular role as a psychotherapist in the field of mental health, youth services and education for over thirty years, afforded me great insight into the concerns of those who need support in understanding who they are, and becoming. As a Woman’s Ministry Adviser, I am pleased to support those striving by God’s grace to live out their calling, as they navigate what it’s like for them to be a woman in ministry.
Bradwell Area Women's Adviser
The Reverend Sally Croft
Phone 07850 361101 or send an email
I am the Rector of All Saints Springfield and have lived in this diocese for most of my life, serving as a Pastoral assistant before ordination. In my previous occupation as a hairdresser and beauty therapist I have been a listening ear to many women's concerns, sign posting when necessary but mostly giving a safe space to share their thoughts and valuing their particular needs. I am looking forward to be an advocate for women in the Bradwell area and working alongside my fellow women’s ministry advisors in the Diocese.
The Reverend Timnat Emmanuel
Phone 07751 008770 or send an email
I currently serve as a Prison Ministry Chaplain. Before ordination, I undertook formal counselling training at Anglia Ruskin University with the goal of offering professional therapeutic support. This foundation has enriched my capacity to serve in diverse contexts, enabling me to minister not only with empathy but with informed, holistic care.
In my role as Women's Ministry Adviser, I want to offer a safe and compassionate space for women to offload, reflect, and find support.
Colchester Area Women's Adviser
Currently in Vacancy
Events
The team works together to offer a variety of events, both in person and online, throughout the year to support you in your ministry. Please check your email and The View – the diocesan weekly email send church officers - for information on upcoming events, or email for the most up to date information - Womensadviser@chelmsford.anglican.org.
Upcomiong events
Faith and Menopause – Thursday 13 November at 7:30pm
Join us for an insightful evening Zoom call on "Faith and Menopause" with Karen Markiewicz. Drawing from her Masters degree research, Karen will share how the journey of menopause can impact a woman's Christian faith. This discussion will explore what has helped other women navigate this pilgrimage and offer practical ways we can support one another. She will share women's testimonies and discuss the challenges and attempt to answer your questions. (NB: Karen is not a medical professional and therefore this conversation will focus on the effects of perimenopause and menopause, rather than offering specific advice for managing physical symptoms.) No registration needed. Open to ordained and lay ministers.
Time: Nov 13, 2025 07:30 PM London
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83777898779?pwd=MNPGXakkHCMG3YMS4dPdai9nattlqa.1
Meeting ID: 837 7789 8779
Passcode: 538794
Past events
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Reflection and Coaching Day – Setting Heathy Boundaries took place on Saturday 11 October
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Reflection and Coaching Day – Setting Heathy Boundaries took place on Saturday 11 October
Reflection and Coaching Day – Setting Heathy Boundaries
In October, we held a Reflection and Coaching Day. The day focused on setting healthy boundaries. Su Blanch of 3D Coaching helped participants to think about how they can identify and establish the boundaries that enable them to thrive in ministry. There was also discussion about Jesus’ examples of setting boundaries.
Diocesan Policies
The team also works with the HR and well-being teams on developing policies to support women in ministry.
- Menopause Policy – coming soon!
Tips and Resources for churches
For churches blessed by having female ministers or looking to support, train and encourage women in ministry, here are a few basics:
- Please be respectful and do not gender stereotype
- Please learn to listen and be willing to offer the space for our truth
- Treat all clergy the same, no matter what their gender
- Use gender-neutral language e.g. vicar, rather than woman/lady vicar
- If a member of your clergy takes parental leave, embrace the opportunity to explore how your church operates as a supportive community where all are able to flourish and perhaps try to see how your deanery can respond collegially
- Women and men are different. We can celebrate the giftings of our diversity, not all women are the same, just as not all men are!
PCCs, church staff, and those in leadership are also encouraged to undertake some unconscious bias training. There is space for us all to be more aware of how we are treating others and to ensure equity and justice is promoted through our actions.