#ThingsChristianWomenHear

In recent days, a tweetstorm erupted over the hashtag #ThingsChristianWomenHear. Since I’ve done some related research, thought I would respond with some thoughts. When the women tweeted what they had heard, it brought a flood of memories. I’ve heard many of them myself.

At my age (late 50’s), some of the strongest statements I have heard erupted from men reacting to my “femaleness” in a male-dominated environment (church leadership/staff). However, the criticisms and negative remarks, while hurtful, are normal for any church staff member—not just the women. Hurtful people will find the weak spot to attack. Our brothers get hit too—just in whatever real or perceived weakness people can find. Some need reaction or discussion and others need to be overlooked.

My research on a dozen women staff members who serve in Southern Baptist Churches where there are no female pastors or elders did not uncover a bunch of angry women. I found women who loved, served, taught, organized, and persevered to serve in their churches. Sure, they had challenges and some were unique to their gender. But I couldn’t have found a more positive and determined group if I had tried. And, I didn’t hand-pick them, it was a random selection.

Should some of these statements have not been said? Yes, some are not said with love or consideration of the feelings of others, or even the overall health of the church. But in the church where I work, I know these men. They are my brothers in Christ and I do whatever I can to keep a strong relationship that is positive. I don’t have time to dwell on the negative. The task we are working on together is too much to spend energy there.

More later . . .