Issachar File

The debate over women preachers has raged for centuries, but the argument has not beenand probably will not beresolved. This book is not an addendum to that dispute. It is, however, an attempt to show some of the difficulties lady ministers have overcome to answer Gods call to proclaim His Word. The International Pentecostal Holiness Church, from its inception, has recognized women by admitting them to pulpits and allowing them to pastor churches. Lady ministers have also served successfully as evangelists and missionaries. However, the leadership of the denomination at a Solemn Assembly in 1996 acknowledged that the church had withheld from women places of honor and desired to release them to serve in leadership roles. Historically, women have gained ground only to lose it again, and even in our twenty-first century society, some still refuse to let Gods handmaids speak.

Issachar Bates (1758-1837) was a Revolutionary War veteran in rural upstate New York who, at the age of forty-three, abruptly turned from his family life to become a celibate Shaker. He immediately became instrumental in Shakerism's westward expansion, and his personal charisma, persuasive preaching, and musical talent helped stimulate the movement's growth. Bates drew "western" converts in abundance, profoundly changing the character of Shakerism by increasing its geographic reach. He also helped shape the Shakers' unique theology and hymnody through his many influential texts and songs.

Examining the lives of notable women, this study of biblical stories teaches the significance of the Black women who brought civilization into existence. Many stories in the Bible are about men. Most studies do not take a female perspective on the exploration of the lived experiences of the women of the Bible. Truthful Reaching Back...Moving Forward does just that, focusing on those stories that depict ordinary women doing extraordinary things that were noteworthy. It allows the opportunity for reflection as we move forward and embrace what these women did to change and contribute to history. With guidance from the Holy Spirit, we can gain an understanding of who these women were, how they lived, and what they endured. This collection serves as a manifestation of victory for all women of color. We must look back to the places, memories, hurts, victories, and fears that history has shown us if we are to move forward positively and embrace who we are with purpose and intention.

Though the church universal is an ancient institution, the contemporary ministry landscape is always changing. That's why a new resource with useful information about Christian organizations is needed. The Essential Handbook of Denominations and Ministries is an easy-to-use guide to more than 200 of the largest denominations and 300 ministries in the United States. The entries for organizations include a brief history and summary, a contemporary profile, and discussion on doctrinal emphases, creeds, membership, and interdenominational and ecumenical alliances. Pastors, ministry leaders, community leaders, and students will find this resource a helpful guide as they seek to understand Christian denominations and ministries.

Reprint of the original, first published in 1875.