Women's History Month
Celebrating Women Who Have Had a Profound Impact on the Church
Posted by: CDFWarrington on Wednesday, March 1, 2023 at 8:36PM
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Women's History Month is celebrated in the United States during the month of March. It is a time to recognize and celebrate the contributions of women throughout history who have made significant impacts in various fields. Here at The Christian Chain, we wish to honor the work of four women in particular.
The History of Women's History Month
The celebration of Women's History Month started in 1978 as a week-long event in Santa Rosa, California. It was later expanded to a month-long observance in 1987 after being petitioned by the National Women's History Project. Since then, Women's History Month has become an annual celebration in which people across the country honor the achievements of women throughout history.
One of the most notable achievements of women in history is the women's suffrage movement. Women fought tirelessly for the right to vote. And finally, in 1920, women were granted the right to vote with the passing of the 19th Amendment. This was a significant turning point in women's rights and helped pave the way for future generations of women to have a voice in politics.
Contributions by Women in History
From arts and literature to science and math, women have made significant contributions in every field of study. For example, in the four areas of S.T.E.M., Rosalind Franklin was a British chemist who made vital contributions to the discovery of the structure of D.N.A. Ada Lovelace is often credited as the world's first computer programmer for her work on Charles Babbage's Analytical Engine. Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson were African American women who worked for NASA and significantly contributed to the space program.
It is a sad truth that women have historically been under-recognized, under-utilized, and under-appreciated for what they could have contributed, and in many cases, what they did contribute, to society. This is unfortunately true as well within the Christian Church. For this reason, we, here at The Christian Chain, wish to honor four women in particular for their unwavering faith, fierce devotion, and sincere work performed for God and the betterment of the Church.
Highlighting the Work of Four Women within the Church
Kateri Tekakwitha was a Native American woman born in 1656. Tekakwitha remained steadfast in her faith and continued to live a life of service and devotion even though it went against her tribe's tradition and caused her to suffer a persecuted life. She cared for the sick and elderly in her community and even took on the role of a catechist, teaching others about Christianity.
Sojourner Truth was a remarkable woman who lived during the 19th century in America. She was born into slavery in New York and faced many challenges throughout her life. Truth was a devout Christian, and her faith played a significant role in her life and her work as a powerful advocate for freedom and equality with a never wavering faith in God. She believed that her faith called her to fight for the abolition of slavery and the promotion of women's rights. She often used biblical references in her speeches and believed that God was on the side of justice and freedom.
Corrie ten Boom was another remarkable woman who lived a life of service and faith. Born in the Netherlands in 1892, she grew up in a family that believed in helping others and living according to their Christian beliefs. She survived the German concentration camps of World War II, and, even after a life fraught with suffering for her beliefs, she devoted herself to spreading the message of forgiveness.
Mother Teresa was a Catholic nun who dedicated her life to serving the poor and needy. She was born in 1910 in Skopje, now part of North Macedonia. Mother Teresa believed that every person could make a difference in the world, no matter how small their actions might seem. Mother Teresa's example of selfless service continues to inspire people of all faiths and backgrounds. Her life and work remind us that we are responsible for caring for one another, especially those most vulnerable.
Concluding Thoughts
Women's History Month is not just about celebrating the achievements of women in history; it is also about recognizing the ongoing fight for gender equality, which is also needed within the Church. Often heated debates on the role of women in the Church cause divisions and breaks instead of resolution and growth. At The Christian Chain, we do not take a stance on any policy or doctrine that is not foundational to the Christian faith or is not strictly against Biblical truths. Instead, we strive to encourage the discussion of topics between denominations to help strive toward mutual understanding and growth. This practice is one of the ways to support women's rights within the Church—another way is by becoming an ally. Allies support and advocate for marginalized groups, even if they are not a part of that group. Allies can help amplify women's voices and advocate for policies that promote gender equality.
In conclusion, Women's History Month is a time to recognize and celebrate the achievements of women throughout history. From the women's suffrage movement to the ongoing fight for gender equality, women have made significant contributions to society.