Jo Anne Lyon: At the Intersection of Spiritual, Cultural, and Political Change

In this long-form conversation, General Superintendent Emerita and Ambassador of The Wesleyan Church Jo Anne Lyon talks about the life and work of John Wesley who, much like Jesus, ministered at the intersection of spiritual, cultural, and political change. It’s in that light she reflects on the question of the church’s role in policy, as well as her participation as a member of the Council on Faith in the World Economic Forum, examining how faith affects the health and prosperity of nations.  

Jo Anne also speaks frankly about what the Bible has to say about the roles of women in the church, how early feminism – and its backlash – shaped those roles over the last several decades, and where the church is headed from here. “We need to come back and reclaim who we are,” she says. 

And don’t miss her reflections on racial justice, compassion, common ground, and the next generation of believers. 

Dr. Lyon holds a master's degree in counseling and has been granted five honorary doctorates. She authored the book The Ultimate Blessing and has served over 30 years in pastoral ministry. She has been an adjunct professor at both Indiana Wesleyan University and Asbury Theological Seminary. As the founder and CEO of World Hope International, she directed the faith-based relief and development organizations into over 30 countries to alleviate suffering and injustice.