Waterfalls International End-Time Ministry

The Wichita chapter of the National Organization for Women (NOW) met on Saturday, March 12, 2011 to discuss “Religion from a Woman’s Perspective”, at the First Unitarian Universalist Church of Wichita at 7202 East 21st Street.

Present on the “Panel to Promote Understanding” was Del Smith, a Soto Zen Buddhist, Mary McDonough Harren, a Catholic, Sarah March, a Christian and Associate Pastor of College Hill United Methodist Church in Wichita, Stacy Steidman, a Druid, and Donna Sibaai, a Muslim and coordinator for the American Muslim Women’s Association, and Kathy Hull, a Wiccan.

Each of the panel members spoke about their various beliefs, sharing why they had chosen their distinct paths, and where they were headed for the future. It was an interesting afternoon, and the question-and-answer period was very thought-provoking.

As each panelist discussed their unique perspectives, there came one common theme among them: Women must stand up and say something, standing firm on what they believe in. Women must quit being quiet because that’s what everyone expects them to be. In a male-dominated society, this is often difficult. Even in the 21st century, women are still struggling to break through glass ceilings.

As one panelist pointed out, history was written by men. Thus, his-story came about, not her-story. Today, that terminology should be changed to our-story. The world is about women as well as men. If women remain silent about their beliefs or what they feel needs to be changed in today’s world, nothing will change.

Biblically, there is a definite place for women in leadership. But women are allowed these roles outside of the church. Women can have their own ministries, teaching other women and children. Only men are to be leaders of a church because they alone are to teach their flock. Women are not to teach men, especially inside the church. They can make suggestions as regards something related to women or children, but that is all.