Spiritual Leadership of Women
Since teachings of Jesus and other Apostles of our faith, Christianity has had a tradition of the spiritual leadership in form of Mother Mary and other woman protagonists from the Bible. As Jesus wrote in the Gospel of Luke “But many who are first will be last, and the last first,” women have always had an integral part in the formation and development of Church. Female figures representing the Biblical canon created an atmosphere which enabled a female presence in the Spirituality, and inspired faith of the believers.
Through the ages, Christian Churches have adopted their understanding of the roles of women, most of which derived from the interpretation and reliance on the Bible and its contents. Different denominations see these roles differently, with Orthodox and Catholic branches of Christianity, who pursue those roles more profoundly than Protestant Churches. Nonetheless, any Christian denomination will share some core values in terms of Christian beliefs, and it is expected that woman will represent these values within and outside of the Church.
What Do Christian Women Do?
Christian women have multiple roles within the Church. While some are purely spiritual roles, in which woman can fill and serve in any role, equal to those of man, that is not always the case. Some roles are necessarily woman-specific, and the examples of woman in Christianity abroad have been of great inspiration for female believers, who have found their paths by their knowledge, faith and conviction.
The role of women in Christian congregation
Women within the Church often take part in the congregational aspect of Christianity, such as choir and congregational singing, prayer maintenance and leadership, or being present during the intercessions. Larger Christian congregations also include a women’s group, where women are encouraged to gather to share the religious experiences, learn the doctrine of the Church, exchange thoughts and create a feminine community in the Church.
Women’s roles in teaching of the faith
Although it is still a rather taboo subject in parts of Christianity, some Churches encourage their female leaders to take part in teaching and catechism, both as a mentor and a teacher. Appropriately trained female mentors provide a different and unique point of view for young Christian children, allowing them to understand their faith from a point of view which was not available previously, and inspiring further learning and development of their faith.
Women as church leaders
The more universal roles of woman in Christianity, however, lay in their capacity to lead and inspire the Church. Throughout history, women have had the privilege and responsibility of leading the flock of the faithful, in one way or another. Elected to their office or chosen as role models, Christian women have been an undeniable part of shaping the Church, and many consider them to be instrumental in its survival and preservation.
Women as Spiritual Guides
Women have a crucial role as spiritual guides in the faith. From the dramatic events of the Old Testament, to the characters of the New, woman were present during the vivid expression of faith. Women inspired other women, and testified the power of God and Spirit. With the right balance of Biblical understanding and sensitivity, women serve as both advisers and spiritual guides, preservers of faith and its tenets.
Women in our modern culture continue to be spiritual guides, into the lives of other women, as well as to their families, friends, even non-believers. With the understanding of spiritual knowledge, women bring to the table more than oftentimes meets the eye. Their faith and inspiring example allows them to pass their knowledge to those in need of guidance and serves as an example of certain behavior, complying with the rules of our faith.
Women as Church Workers
In addition to their spiritual roles, woman normally have the opportunities, and often times the responsibility to occupy other important Church positions. These can range from secretaries, doormen, helpers, finance and account managers, to other roles of administrative work. While not instilling the same degree of spiritual leadership and presence, it in no way implies lack of dedication and zeal.
This is yet another, capital role of women in Christianity, one that allows us to maintain the day-to-day operations of the Church. Women’s specialized skills and capabilities help ensure that the Church shall continue to thrive and flourish.
Women in Small Group Ministry and Evangelization
In recent years, the rise of small group ministries, communal praying and evangelization have created another prominent role for woman in Christianity. Brought closer to the faith, and encouraged to propagate it further, many women have found their place in the missionary movements, as well as other non-profit missions and activities. On top of spreading the faith, these activities also provide another precious way of helping in Christian education, creation of awareness and gaining knowledge.
Women as Spiritual Counselors
One of the most profound roles of women in Christianity is their capacities to counsel and provide spiritual advice to others. As natural mentors and confidants, women provide powerful insights and advice, based on understanding and their experience of the faith. With knowledge, discretion and open mindedness, spiritual counselors can help and assist anyone in need of spiritual advice, often providing the missing pieces and spiritual guidance to the troubled individual.
Women in Liturgy, Worship and Fellowship
Female participation in Liturgy and Worship, often overlooked and undervalued by many, nevertheless, remains integral part of our faith. Women in Churches serve as empowered symbols of faith, as well as often providing refreshing, deep insights into the roots of faith, and at times, introducing a new prospective view of the Scripture. In addition, they lend a fresh perspective and meaning to the Church, which is invaluable and quite extraordinary, serving as a very ancient tradition and cornerstone of the religion.
Women as Ministers and Preachers
It is true that positions of Ministers tend to be mainly male dominated in Christianity, while positions of Preachers are typically filled by a man. Yet, this is changing, and it is expected that in the near future, more churches will include female presence as Ministers and Preachers. Similarly to the other roles, these positions require profound knowledge, trustworthiness, good judgment and discernment, honesty, and patience.
Apart from that women in Christianity are expected to contribute to their church financially, to continue deepening their level of understanding of the Bible, and most importantly, to live by their faith, become models of justice and mercy, and inspire their church and local communities.
Women in Service, Dedication and Charisma
At its core, the Christian Church is built on the good qualities of its members. Women in Christianity, in particular, bring a unique mixture of dedication, devotion and charisma. Ladies often demonstrate the true spirit of Christianity, by their will to help those in need, and to offer spiritual advice and council. Women contribute significantly to the mission and growth of the Church and by doing so, they offer an exceptional chance of gaining knowledge and spiritual intelligence.
Women as Evangelists and Revivalists
Women also carry the torch of faith, by witnessing and testifying to people, in hopes of inspiring and encouraging them in the ways of Christian faith. Women as Evangelists and Revivalists are imposing figures of our churches, they offer knowledge, experience, comfort and guidance and provide support in times of hardships and plight. In addition, these inspiring ladies raise their voices and work of inspiring more people to become more deeply energized, thankful and to feel the power of faith and development of the union that is transcending any denomination.
Women in the Missionary Movements
A crucial role for women in Christianity is their involvement in some of the most successful missionary movements. Namely, the female denominations of Christianity, have seen unparalleled success in both local and international missions. From authors, to preachers, these ladies have proved that through hard work, dedication, and perseverance, anything is possible. Whether it is expanding their faith, or traveling to foreign lands, they often demonstrate their skills, courage and resolve.
Women in Charitable Pursuits
Women in Christianity are also a positive factor in charitable pursuits. Namely, many female churches and organizations are highly active in raising funds and providing direct and necessary aid to those in need. In addition to that women-centered charities often demonstrate an unprecedented amount of resilience and swiftness to react in times of crises. From education to health care, sanitation to food aid, women in Christian-focused charities demonstrate exemplary performance, which is both invaluable and inspiring for the Church.
Women in the House of God
Overall, women have an important role in the house of God, by embodying their faith through their knowledge, dedication, skills, and experience. Whether through preaching, missionary work, or helping others in need, women in Christian faith have been sought after and highly respected for their contributions in the past and present. Seeing their importance in the Christian faith, it is expected that this role will continue to be of great significance and impact.
