Feminist Writings and Info Sheets
Article – In the Southern Baptist Convention
When clergy sexual abuse scandals within Southern Baptist congregations and institutions finally came to light, they glared of patriarchy and suppression. Sandi Evans Rogers, a pastor in the Church of the Brethren, was first ordained and served in the Southern Baptist Convention.
Speech – Uncommon Courage
Zandra Wagoner’s speech at the 2014 Annual Conference Luncheon. A meditation on courage, this speech touches on Wagoner’s experiences and relates them to allyship.
“Dr. Angelou explains, courage does involve exertion. It requires us to make decisions of consequence that have a personal cost…At the center of courage is the willingness to make decisions that are fateful, that matter, and have consequences.”
Speech – Uncommon Courage
Zandra Wagoner’s speech at the 2014 Annual Conference Luncheon. A meditation on courage, this speech touches on Wagoner’s experiences and relates them to allyship.
“Dr. Angelou explains, courage does involve exertion. It requires us to make decisions of consequence that have a personal cost…At the center of courage is the willingness to make decisions that are fateful, that matter, and have consequences.”
Letter – Power of the People’s Movement
This letter is should be read in tandem with the “Uncommon Courage” speech. It is written by Benton Rhoades and is a reflection of his time with the United Farm Workers.
“A people's movement usually depends heavily on the moral leadership of its women. This I have observed in the midst of the strike action.”
Information sheet – Women in Ministry
Information specific to the Church of the Brethren on women in ministry. This document will be updated soon as the statistics mentioned are almost ten years old!
This document poses questions and discussion points for churches and hiring committees to think about to help support and facilitate opportunities for women in leadership.
Information sheet – Inclusive Language
This is a basic resource for starting to think about inclusive language in church services, Bible readings, prayers and any church programming.
Article – Denominational Response to Abuse
How did Mennonites respond to John Howard Yoder’s decades of sexual abuse? Read Anna Lisa Gross’ article, originally published in Messenger Magazine and reprinted with permission.
Information sheet – Creating Safe Spaces in our Churches
Informational resources on ways that churches can create safe spaces for different church events.
“Safe space is not created overnight. It takes time and care to build relationships.”
Speech – Stepping Toward Talking about Abuse
Anna Lisa Gross’ opening remarks for the 2023 Womaen’s Caucus Annual Conference luncheon step gently and firmly toward talking about sexual and gendered abuse in the Church of the Brethren.
Womaen's Caucus: Governance for Gender Equality
This resource outlines the foundational principles and operational structure of the Womaen's Caucus, Church of the Brethren, an organization dedicated to advancing gender equality within the church and broader society. Originating from a 1971 rationale, the Constitution details the group's mission, vision, and purpose, emphasizing education, personal support, and advocacy as key strategies. It also defines the Caucus's relationship with the Church of the Brethren and its membership criteria.