Trenchard Reflects on Biblical Deborah’s Leadership in Pacific Union’s Path to Ordaining Women

By Simonique Dietz

In reflecting on the story of Deborah, the Hebrew judge and prophet, Dr. Warren Trenchard—longtime faculty member and senior administrator at Burman University in Alberta, Canada, and La Sierra University—underscored the profound scope of her leadership and its implications for women in ministry.

Dr. Warren Trenchard

Responding to the reading of Judges 4:1–7, Dr. Trenchard said he was “mesmerized by the scope of Deborah’s roles.” Beyond her role as prophet and wife, Deborah was judge, military dispatcher, strategist, and later a singer-songwriter whose influence extended into Israel’s collective memory.

“I read the rest of her story in chapters 4–5 that details more about this remarkable woman,” Dr. Trenchard said. “She was the companion and strategist for a military leader and a celebrated singer-songwriter. Deborah’s status and influence seem to have motivated other women, especially Jael. The result—‘the land had rest for forty years’ (5:31 NRSV).”

Dr. Trenchard’s reflection was published in his analysis piece How the Pacific Union Began Ordaining Women (March 27, 2025). In that essay, he situates Deborah’s story within a broader historical and theological framework, linking biblical precedent to contemporary efforts within Adventism to affirm women in positions of authority.

For Dr. Trenchard, Deborah stands as both a historical figure and a symbol of God’s affirmation of diverse leadership roles for women. Her narrative, he suggests, challenges assumptions about gender limitations in leadership, both in ancient Israel and in today’s church.

Dr. Trenchard served more than 35 years in higher education, first at what is now Burman University in Alberta, Canada, and later at La Sierra University in Riverside, Calif., where he held faculty and senior administrative posts. His career has been marked by scholarship and advocacy around issues of equity, leadership, and faith in academic and church contexts.

By grounding contemporary discussions in biblical narratives such as Deborah’s, Dr. Trenchard’s analysis contributes to the ongoing dialogue within the Adventist community and beyond on the theological and practical foundations for ordaining women.

As TEAM reflects on his words, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting women who sense God’s call to ministry. Just as Deborah’s leadership brought peace and direction to her people, we desire to walk alongside today’s women leaders, encouraging them, affirming their gifts, and ensuring they know they are not alone in their calling. Apply Now!