Testimonials
“Penelope is one of the finest priests I know—not “female” priest, but just “priest”. God has seen fit to combine in her high character, deep piety and a broad gift-mix. This combination makes her a wonderful guide and retreat leader for both current leaders and those who feel called to ministry. I sincerely commend Penelope and her work.”
Bishop Todd Hunter, The Anglican Mission
“If you are looking for a speaker who is both biblically solid and personally relevant, you have a treat in store with Penelope Swithinbank. She makes the scriptures come alive while at the same time she speaks to the real needs of women today. Her style, which is classy and elegant, appeals to thoughtful women who long for substance.”
Susan Alexander Yates, author and speaker
“Penelope speaks with humor and candor, allowing her points to hit home in a direct but down to earth way. She puts women at ease, speaking from her own experience as a business woman, mother and clergys wife, as well as being an ordained priest herself. She never fails to challenge her listeners to new levels of understanding. Most importantly, Penelope has a heart for God which is reflected by her thought provoking and Biblically-sound insights. Penelope never fails to send her listeners away with some new challenge or inspiration.”
Kris Packard & Gwynn Chandler, Co-Chairs of The Falls Church Womens Retreat
“Rev. Penelope Swithinbank is one of the best female clergy speakers I have had the pleasure of hearing. Listening to Penelope is the verbal equivalent of getting a relaxing massage that addresses the knots in ones muscles – tough message in gentle rhetoric and always inspiring.”
Christina Bolton, former President of Capitol Strategies, and Co-Chair of the Professional Women’s Program, The Falls Church, Virginia, USA
“Penelope really does have a heart for women. Her wealth of experience as a mother, pastor’s wife, business woman and friend, combined with a refreshing honesty about her own journey- the joys, struggles, failures, fears and celebrations of being a woman – make her ministry an inspiration to all. Her ministry is built on a love of God, a passion and deep understanding of His Word and a desire to see women released into greater freedom and depth of maturity. My life has been profoundly influenced by the insight and support of Penelope-her loving encouragement to fix my eyes on Jesus and give Him my whole life and heart.”
Wendy Brown, former Deputy Head of an inner city school; ordained in the Church of England
“In a time and culture where it may often be difficult for women to find clarity, admonishment, grace, and freedom, Penelopes leadership and teaching exemplify and foster such discoveries. As a scholar, a wife, a mother, a businesswoman, a pilgrim and a priest, Penelope brings a wealth and depth of experience that is relevant and helpful to many throughout various stages in life. With thoughtful consideration of the scriptures and a calm yet truthful demeanor, she mingles personal stories, humor, and grace and helps us to grow in our understanding of Gods deep love for us. Whether through her writings, workshops or talks, others and I have been challenged and encouraged to realize our worth in Gods eyes and the depth of our need for Him.”
Dr Anjeanette Roberts, Associate Professor of Microbiology, Immunology & Infectious Diseases, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA
Penelope is someone who has experienced many of the complexities of being a woman – a daughter, sister, wife, mother, friend, rector’s wife, now a minister herself and all the way through a daughter of God. She understands all that these things churn up on the inside of us and her teaching is not simply theory, but heartfelt and life earned wisdom. Penelope has a real gift of bridging the gap between how we as women experience the world and how God has intended us as women to experience it.”
Sarah Miller, former Head of Youth Ministries, St Helens, Nottingham, UK, now a Rector’s wife herself