Throughout the year, we present an article in the bulletin each week on a variety of topics, written by a member of our Parish staff on a rotating basis.

From the Coordinator of Inclusion, Diversity, & Equity

by Corey Shorter

Celebrating Women

(Embracing Women’s Empowerment Month)

Established in March 1987 Women’s History Month serves as a time to honor the achievements and contributions that women of all backgrounds have made throughout the history of the United States, both by remembering those who paved the way in the struggle for gender equity and those who are still breaking down gender barriers in the United States.

Throughout history, we have learned about amazing people who have done courageous things. Most of the time, the people who are recognized for shaping and molding society are men. We often overlook the very important role women play in shaping our society as well. The month of March was declared Women’s Empowerment Month. This holiday was designed to highlight the many contributions of women in our society past and present. We will take a look throughout history and highlight the key roles women have played since the beginning of time.

In Genesis 2:18 scripture says” And the Lord God said, it is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a help meet”. The term “help meet” translated in Hebrew is “Ezer and Kenegdo”, which means the strength to rescue others. God with his infinite wisdom knew that when he created the “man” it was good but when he created the “woman” society was complete. Time after time, women have stepped up and taken the lead in some very critical situations. For example, during her husband’s term as president, First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt played a critical role in the rebuilding and cultivating of a distressed country. During their time in office, they were faced with many challenges – The Great Depression, World War II, as well as establishing “The New Deal”, and in the midst of all of these things, President Roosevelt’s health started to decline. During those times, First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt had to step in and make some critical decisions for the sake of the country.  Her leadership during those times had forever redefined the role of First Lady for future leaders that would come after her. Roosevelt was an advocate for women’s rights and women’s activism. 

In conclusion, key women have been strategically placed all throughout history to fulfill God’s purpose for their lives. Even though they are the willing vessels being used by God, their faithfulness has positively impacted all of our lives to this day.  One of the greatest examples of this is the story of Mary Mother of Jesus. God entrusted Mary with the most precious gift known to mankind and that gift was Jesus Christ. Through that gift, all of humanity was granted salvation. We must take this month to honor all women for their many contributions to an imperfect society.