Annual Women’s Day Celebration presented by United Women in Faith of Anderson UMC
By Brinda F. Willis, Ph.D.
JA Contributing Writer
The United Women in Faith of Anderson United Methodist Church will host their 54th Annual Women’s Day Celebration on Sunday, August 23, 2026, at 10:15 a.m. with guest speaker Rev. Dr. Clementine M. Mays.
The Annual Women’s Day Celebration theme is “Walking by Faith for Such a Time As This,” inspired by the biblical story of Esther. The theme celebrates the courage, purpose, and unwavering faith of women answering God’s call to serve in their homes, churches, and communities.
“We are excited to welcome Rev. Dr. Mays and we invite the entire community to join us for this special day of worship, inspiration, and fellowship,” said Cynthia Bullock-Nelson, President of United Women in Faith at Anderson United Methodist Church.
Rev. Dr. Mays also is an author, counselor, and former Presiding Elder whose ministry has inspired congregations nationwide. Her powerful preaching and servant leadership promises to make this celebration a memorable and uplifting experience.
Additionally, Rev. Dr. Mays is a distinguished ecclesial leader and scholar whose ministry spans more than three decades within the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church. She is a native of Bruce, MS. Rev. Dr. Mays began her spiritual formation at Bruce Chapel CME Church, where she received nurturing and spiritual growth. She accepted her call to the preaching ministry in November 1994, and has since become a respected voice in pastoral leadership, theological education, and community engagement.
Academically, Rev. Dr. Mays is very accomplished, holding an associate degree from Northwest Community College; a Bachelor of Liberal Arts from the University of Mississippi; the Master of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry degrees from Memphis Theological Seminary; and the Doctorate of Christian Counseling from Jacksonville Theological Seminary. Her professional preparation also includes the Pastoral Excellence Certificate from the Phillips School of Theology, ICAM certification, and extensive continuing education in Marriage and Family Therapy. She is a Licensed Social Worker and a Volunteer Chaplain.
Her pastoral leadership includes a decade of service as Presiding Elder in the Northeast Mississippi Region, where she supervised more than 36 congregations. She currently serves as Pastor of Beckley Chapel CME Church in Booneville, Mississippi, where her leadership has guided significant renovations, ministry expansion, and community outreach. She is known affectionately as “A Builder of God’s Church,” leading multiple congregations through new construction, parsonage development, and major facility improvements.
Rev. Dr. Mays’ service to the CME Church extends across local, and regional levels. She has served as Treasurer of the Northeast Mississippi Region Annual Conference, One Church One School Director for the Fourth Episcopal District, Presiding Elders Administrative Assistant, Commissioner on Women in Ministry, and a member of the CME Connectional Board. She has taught at convocations, conferences, and institutes across the denomination, including the Elias Cottrell Institute. Her ecumenical involvement includes participation in the World Methodist Council, the Council of National Black Churches, and the National Council of Negro Women. She is also an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. strengthening discipleship, and serving women, children, and youth. Through local outreach and global missions, the organization continues to be a faithful witness to Christ’s love in action.
Anderson United Methodist Church is located at 6205 Hanging Moss Road, Jackson, Mississippi 39206. Come and experience inspiring music, meaningful worship, and a powerful message.
The event is open and free to the public. For additional information, please contact Anderson United Methodist Church at (601) 982-3997.
