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Keynote speakers Andrew Bartlett, Steve Holmes, and Lucy Peppiatt consider the spiritual and social consequences of theological patriarchy.

What do Gen. 2:24-25 and Eph. 5: 21-33 have in common? When rightly understood, they both provide an almost formula-like description for a pleasurable, loving, faithful marriage of oneness. And both passages are built on equality and mutuality. Modern science teaches what the writers of Genesis and Ephesians could not have known.

The book of Galatians reminds us we are called to be free, and to use that freedom to serve in love. 

Gender and Missions Panel

Cultures of hierarchy maintain authority by claiming ontological distinction. The power and dominance inherent in hierarchy, which directly conflict with ontological equality, perpetuates abuse. This session will examine the abuse that results from hierarchical human relationships and the biblical response to dominance.

Two leaders of a pre-ministerial initiative for college students reveal how their theology of male/female shared leadership shapes their and students visions for ministry. Drawing on theological insights from Genesis and personal experience, they offer a practical theology for ministry leaders serving in Gods image.

Seeking Justice and Loving Mercy: Gender and Equality in the Bible and our Culture

This recording is the personal account of Rev. Hays’ call to ministry and the obstacle of her gender in fulfilling that call. It draws on Paul’s own description of himself and his enthusiasm for God’s work in Philippians 3:4b-6. The talk culminates with Hays’ decision to leave the denomination of her childhood, a decision that brought freedom in the gospel but not without a long process of mourning.

Patriarchy and Worth

Paul and the Leadership of Women: Irreconcilable or Inextricable? The Historical Context of Ephesians and Corinthians