By Belize Live News Staff: According to a report from Amandala, Bishop Elswith Claire has made history as the first woman to hold the office of President and the third Bishop of the Belize/Honduras Methodist Church in the Caribbean and the Americas. Her official induction took place on Sunday, September 1, at Wesley Church on Albert Street, Belize City.
Bishop Claire, who hails from humble beginnings in Dangriga Town, has been associated with the Methodist Church her entire life. Raised in a single-parent household, she attended Sunday School, youth groups, and various church activities. Instilled with the values of love, hope, and faith by her mother, Claire’s early connection to the church set her on a path toward ministry.
At 10 years old, she expressed a desire to become a preacher, but it wasn’t until after a near-death experience during a botched surgery that she fully embraced her calling. Claire recalls a profound moment on her hospital bed when she committed herself to serving God if she survived. This pivotal experience led her to leave her career as a primary school teacher and dedicate herself to the ministry.
Throughout her ministry, Bishop Claire has broken barriers in a male-dominated field. However, she shared with Amandala her concern about the lack of women pursuing leadership roles in the church. Despite the opportunities, Claire notes that few females are stepping forward, often due to misconceptions about the financial rewards of ministry. “It’s not a high-paying job; it’s a vocation,” she emphasized.
One of her proudest accomplishments is the positive impact she has had on the youth. Claire shared a touching story with Amandala about a former student at Wesley College who had lost faith in God. Through her guidance, that young man turned his life around and is now a police officer, despite facing pressure from gangs.
At 66, Bishop Claire reflects on her journey with gratitude. “All I can say, to God be the glory! He has used me and shown the world what a faithful servant looks like and acts like,” she said, crediting her success to her unwavering faith.
