Description:This volume brings together twelve scholars from a variety of scholarly fields including biblical studies, history, theology, sociology, anthropology, and missiology in a multi-disciplinary exploration of themes related to women's leadership within the three branches of the renewal movement: Holiness, Pentecostal and Charismatic traditions. These scholars - women and men - from both within and outside the traditions, draw on various methodologies including hermeneutics, ethnography, critical theory, and historical analysis to explore the experiences and contributions of women from the movement's inception to the present. They keep before us the challenges that still impact women's full participation as equal partners in ministry and leadership on both the American and global scene. The volume looks at the multiple roots of women's marginalization within the renewal movement while suggesting progressive solutions that take seriously the social locations of Pentecostal and Charismatic congregations and the theological foundations on which the movement has been built. At the same time, it locates these discussions within the broader postmodern realities facing the church as it attempts to faithfully live out its witness to the biblical truth that both male and female are created in the God's image and endowed with the capacity to work creatively toward the unfolding of the Kingdom. Endorsements:My childhood experience led me to believe God called both men and women to 'full-time ministry.' My mom and dad were listed as co-pastors of every church they served. They shared all duties of pastoral ministry. I assumed the Spirit coming on 'all flesh' meant men and women alike. This volume documents, in detail, the complexities of 'Philip's daughters' as the Pentecostal-charismatic tradition has emerged and developed. My childhood experience has been impacted by much of what has been carefully researched and analyzed by the contributors to this volume. The stories told and critiques offered reflect lived experiences rather than aloof scholarship. Years of ministry have confirmed the veracity of this volume's clarion call to a hermeneutic of recovery. The future effectiveness of the Pentecostal movement may well depend on the fullest release of Philip's daughter to prophesy.--Byron KlausPresident, Assemblies of God Theological SeminaryThe time for this volume is long overdue. The Pentecostal-charismatic movement has been birthed and nurtured by its spirit-inspired women. Its future relevance will depend on its commitment to and inclusion of the 'weaker sex.' These scholars, writing from inside and outside the movement, provide compelling, thoroughly researched accounts of this history. The editors are leading voices and advocates for the full participation of women in every capacity. Failure to heed their direction will result in an uneven future for the entire Pentecostal-charismatic movement.--Emerson B. PoweryProfessor of Biblical Studies, Messiah CollegeAbout the Contributor(s):Estrelda Alexander is Associate Professor of Theology at Regent University School of Divinity. She is author of two books including The Women of Azusa Street (2006). Amos Yong is Professor of Theology at Regent University School of Divinity. He is the author of six books, including the award winning The Spirit Poured Out on All Flesh: Pentecostalism and the Possibility of Global Theology (2005).
