Pentecost: Women's Emancipation Day? (original) (raw)

This paper explores the fluctuating role of women in Pentecostal ministry, highlighting their significant contributions during the early stages of the movement contrasted with their relegation to supportive roles as Pentecostalism became institutionalized. Key themes include the initial openness towards female ministers, the impact of eschatological beliefs on women's involvement in evangelism, and the enduring biases that have limited women's roles in church leadership despite formal recognition of their ordination. Through historical accounts and critical analyses, the paper argues for a reassessment of women's contributions and challenges the lingering perceptions that uphold gender inequalities within Pentecostal churches.