Sharma is a female name of Indian Sanskrit origin, meaning "Protected." The name is derived from the Sanskrit term "ṣárman," which carries meanings of 'joy,' 'comfort,' and 'happiness.' Sharma is a Hindu Brahmin surname, and according to the Bhavishya Purana, it is the first Brahmin surname given by Parashurama, the sixth avatar of Vishnu, to King Jaisen. Notable individuals with the surname Sharma, Sarma, or Sarmah come from diverse fields such as politics, entertainment, sports, and academia. The name is commonly used by Assamese Brahmins and holds cultural significance within Indian heritage. Whether as a surname or a first name, Sharma symbolizes protection and happiness, making it a meaningful choice for individuals seeking a name rooted in Sanskrit tradition.
Sharma D. Lewis is an American bishop in the United Methodist Church, born in 1963 in Statesboro, Georgia. She made history by being the first African American woman to be elected as bishop in the UMC's Southeastern Jurisdictional Conference. Lewis' parents, Charlie Lewis and Alethia Lewis, were owners of several small businesses in the community and were actively involved in church roles and community organizations. After a career in science, Lewis pursued ministry, earning a Master of Divinity degree with honors from Gammon Theological Seminary in Atlanta, Georgia. She served in various pastoral roles, breaking barriers as the first woman and African American to lead several congregations. In 2016, she was elected as a bishop, marking a historic moment in the UMC. Notably, Bishop Sharma Lewis was appointed as the bishop for the Virginia Conference in 2016 and later began her tenure as bishop of the Mississippi conference on January 1, 2023. However, she faced controversy in June 2022 when she was accused of evading prescribed duties. Despite this, Lewis remains a prominent figure within the United Methodist Church.
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