When we think of education, we picture classrooms, degrees, and diplomas. But education is so much more than a desk and a syllabus—it’s a conference that introduces new ideas, a book that offers a fresh perspective, a conversation that penetrates the heart. It is through these tools that we at CBE work out our mission “to promote the biblical message that God calls women and men of all cultures, races, and classes to share authority equally in service and leadership in the home, church, and world” and “to eliminate the power imbalance between men and women resulting from theological patriarchy.”1 Through podcasts, articles, books, and conferences, we strive to provide resources that encourage and empower.
One of our favorite projects at CBE is our annual conference. Each year we come together to learn about biblical equality, to meet other egalitarians, and to grow. This issue of Mutuality comes on the heels of our 2025 conference, held in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Through our incredible speakers, attendees had the opportunity to learn more in depth about the biblical foundation for women and men leading side by side (You can watch the recordings here!). From sessions about women in the Bible, an up-close look at women’s importance in the Exodus, and a better understanding of Priscilla and Aquila, to sessions on Bible translation and the challenges faced by women particularly in Latin America, attendees had the opportunity to see familiar passages in a new light, ask questions, and connect with others. We are excited about the impact we are already seeing in Argentina as we now turn our eyes to Chicago in preparation for our next conference, August 7–9, 2026.
Each year’s conference brings a mix of attendees; some are already familiar with biblical equality, while others are learning about it for the first time. Our first article begins with a conference in which the author, previously unfamiliar with biblical equality, is deeply impacted by a presentation by CBE founder Catherine Clark Kroeger and is set on a new trajectory. The next two authors share their struggle from painful disillusionment to embracing their God-given gifts and callings. Next, an insightful article sheds light on what Paul meant when instructing women to be silent. Then we learn about the powerful archaeological evidence showing that women have been involved in church leadership from the very beginning—stunning and uplifting news for those who may feel alone in ministry. Finally, we end with specific statistical evidence of the impact women have on their communities when they are allowed to pursue education, formal or otherwise.
In these pages of Mutuality, we will explore the transformational power of education. Whether discovering biblical equality for the first time, considering eye-opening books and conversations, or learning new ways to understand the Bible, our own church history, and our communities, we see how learning leads to a process of healing, growth, and wholeness.
It is just this that we will discuss in Chicago: “Made Whole: Healing the Body of Christ.”2 In these days, too many people consider women and men’s biblical equality to be a less important, “secondary issue.” But when half the church is hurting, the whole church is hurting. Following the principles we see in this issue of Mutuality, we hope to come together to listen, learn, and grow, promoting healing for the whole body.
Whether you have just discovered CBE or are a long-time subscriber, whether you have attended our conferences, read articles online, or listened to our podcasts, we hope we contribute to your education on the important issue of biblical equality. And we invite you to join us in Chicago so we can continue to learn together!
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