The Role of Women
The majority of church-denominations in Christendom (Christianity Today , April 2011, puts the number at a staggering 42,000 - up from 18,800 in 19870 and 1,600 in 1900) allow a limited role for women. Some denominations do not allow women to be clergy, some even forbid women to teach men or read scripture in worship. Presbyterians are in a distinct minority; we believe that by virtue of our baptism we are all ministers- "For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ, there is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus"(Galatians 3.27-28).
More than disagree to this limited roll for women, I protest! My daughters are not second class citizens. The harm? Some churches teach that God has ordered wives to 'obey' their husbands. As a Mother lamented to me, her daughter belongs to such a church and was told point-blank "whatever your husband wants, you must provide." Asked the Mother, "what's the difference between that and rape?"
Yes, agree to disagree, each to their own, no harm no foul - but I believe that what is taught in many churches today does harm women! What do you think?
In faith,
Pastor Tim
|
|
"The discrimination against women on a global basis is very often attributable to the declaration by religious leaders in Christianity, Islam , and other religions that women are inferior in the eyes of God."
Former President Jimmy Carter
|
Natural Disasters
The Presbyterian Church is responding both to the tornadoes that ravaged communities in Missouri and Oklahoma and to the Mississippi flooding. We have responded with volunteers and material support provided through the One Great Hour of Sharing and the Presbyterian Disaster Fund. Those who want to make contributions please indicate 'Presbyterian Disaster Fund or PDA on your check. Let us all continue to pray for our brothers and sisters in harm's way.
|
