Leading Ladies
Lady Deborah Wiggins
First Lady of the International Bishops' Conference USA — leading the Leading Ladies initiative with grace, wisdom, and a heart for the wives of the episcopate.
A Word from the First Lady
"Called to walk alongside, to listen, and to lift."
Lady Deborah Wiggins serves as the heart of the Leading Ladies initiative — a sisterhood of episcopal wives committed to spiritual companionship, personal wellness, and the quiet, sacred work of supporting the bishopric.
With decades of ministry experience walking beside Archbishop Allen Wiggins, Lady Deborah brings a depth of understanding to the unique calling of an episcopal spouse. Her ministry centers on hospitality, intercession, and the cultivation of safe spaces for sisters in this distinct ministry assignment.
Bio
Lady Deborah Wiggins — "Lady D"
Deborah Wiggins is happily married to Archbishop Allen T.D. Wiggins. She is the proud mother of five and grandmother of two. Her family is her pride and joy.
She has served at The Hope Church for over 30 years and has had the honor for the past 17 years of serving under the leadership of her husband. In addition to being the First Lady of The Hope Church, she is an ordained minister, an author, an entrepreneur, and a TV personality. Lady Deborah self-published her book, My Testimony – Life, Lessons and Legacy. Fifteen years ago she launched her business, The Lady's Place, and she is widely known as a member of the Current Ladies on Good Life 45.
Lady Deborah's personal mantra comes from Revelation 12:11 — "And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death." She uses her personal testimony as a testament to the power of our God to transform lives. Lady Deborah Wiggins strives to be a model of a Godly woman: a wife, mother to her children, and spiritual mom to those she is blessed to be in relationship with.
About the Leading Ladies
The Leading Ladies of IBC USA is a fellowship dedicated to the wives of bishops within the conference — providing care, mentorship, retreats, and continuing education that honor the weight and joy of their calling. Building upon the foundation laid by Mother Reathie Bailey, the initiative carries forward a legacy of sisterhood, prayer, and practical support.
Pillars of Ministry
- + Mentorship — Pairing seasoned First Ladies with newer episcopal spouses for guidance and friendship.
- + Retreat & Renewal — Annual gatherings devoted to rest, worship, and intentional sisterhood.
- + Training & Etiquette — Equipping in protocol, public presence, and the practical demands of episcopal life.
- + Intercession — A standing prayer covering for the bishops, their families, and the fellowship.
"Ministry to one another is the holy work that holds the house together."
— Lady Deborah Wiggins