Knowlin challenges African-American Clergywomen

By Allison Trussell

FLORENCE—“Wade in the water” was the command given by the Rev. Tiffany Knowlin during the African-American Clergywoman’s luncheon June 8.

Drawing on the story of Pharaoh’s daughter and Moses, Knowlin challenged the women to do what it takes to guide and protect children.

Scripture tells us (Exodus 2:1-10) that the Pharaoh’s daughter knew Moses was a Hebrew, was an enemy of the state and yet takes him back to the palace where he is raised, Knowlin said. She recognizes the difference between Pharaoh’s law and God’s law. She chooses to be something different, to not ignore what is going on around her. From her, we can learn to be an advocate for children, we can learn that fear and anxiety cannot dictate our actions.

Like Pharaoh’s daughter, when we are willing to listen to our hearts, lives are changed. What does it mean to sacrifice a few hours a week to tutor or mentor a child or adult, she asked. Frederick Douglass noted that it is easier to raise strong children than to fix broken men. What, Knowlin asked, are we doing to raise strong children?

She recalled the story of the little boy throwing starfish back into the sea, one at a time. When an adult asked why, for there were thousands on the sand, the child replied, One is better than none.

“The lesson of Pharaoh’s daughter is that one child is worth our time, our energy and our sacrifice.”

The clergywomen recognized those among them who were retiring—Revs. Lillian Washington and Clara Gary— as well as those being ordained—Revs. LaSheila Wyatt, Cheryl Johnson, Angela Johnson and Blondell Miller.