In this re-posted Project Zion Podcast episode, Smith College Professor David Howlett explores the experiences of women in Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints before the introduction of women's ordination.

Background

Read more about women in the priesthood in the May/June issue of the Herald.

On 5 April 1984, World Conference delegates voted to accept a document submitted by President Wallace B. Smith, making it part of the Doctrine and Covenants. In the introduction Smith remarked that he "continued to seek for greater understanding of the divine will...to address some of the difficult and divisive issues facing the church today." He indicated the many hours spent in prayer and fasting, saying, "Each time the message has been impressed upon me again, consistently and steadily." Section 156 opened the way to full participation of the church's women in priesthood ministry.

It is my will that my priesthood be made up of those who have an abiding faith and desire to serve me with their hearts, in humility and with great devotion. ...All are called according to the gifts which have been given them. ...Therefore, do not wonder that some women of the church are being call to priesthood responsibilities.

Intro and Outro music used with permission:

“For Everyone Born,” Community of Christ Sings #285. Music © 2006 Brian Mann, admin. General Board of Global Ministries t/a GBGMusik, 458 Ponce de Leon Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30308.                                  

“The Trees of the Field,” Community of Christ Sings # 645, Music © 1975 Stuart Dauerman, Lillenas Publishing Company (admin. Music Services).

All music for this episode was performed by Dr. Jan Kraybill, and produced by Chad Godfrey.

NOTE: The series that make up the Project Zion Podcast explore the unique spiritual and theological gifts Community of Christ offers for today’s world. Although Project Zion Podcast is a Ministry of Community of Christ. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those speaking and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Community of Christ.