Women who serve as clergy or in other church leadership roles
experience ministry differently than men do. They offer remarkably
powerful gifts, but their pathways are full of obstructions and thorny
challenges. Compounding this problem is the fact that there often is an
assumption that these issues have been solved; women are ordained, have
been ‘granted’ their places, end of story. But in fact the issues have
not been solved; they are just masked, disguised or buried below the
surface.
Karoline Lewis’s best-selling book
SHE: Five Keys to Unlock the Power of Women in Ministry addresses the problem.
SHEcovers everything from biblical arguments for and against women in the
church to what not to wear. With startling clarity, Lewis reveals the
underpinnings of sexism and examines issues of identity, authority,
sexuality, authenticity, embodiment, boundaries and self-care. She
guides the reader to develop a personal theology of leadership. Lewis is
a scholar and clergywoman, and her book is practical, insightful, and
thought-provoking.
The
SHE study is the essential next step, helping pastors &
other leaders to process the information and apply it in their own
lives and ministries. It is a five-session group experience for clergy,
staff and laity, women and men. It includes a Participant Book, which
serves as a personal workbook and journal. It also includes a DVD with
brief segment starter videos featuring the author. The facilitator’s
guide is included on the DVD and available for download online.
The study can be organized over a period of weeks, or can be completed
as a one- or two-day retreat. It is an exceptional training tool for
clergy, church staff, lay leaders, and other ministry professionals,
especially women. It shapes leaders who are more fruitful, confident,
and theologically grounded.
