MC USA releases curriculum on dismantling patriarchy

Laboring Toward Wholeness: A Training on Dismantling Patriarchy. — Mennonite Church USA Laboring Toward Wholeness: A Training on Dismantling Patriarchy. — Mennonite Church USA

The Women in Leadership ministry of Mennonite Church USA has released a Bible-based curriculum that explores the roots of patriarchy — a social structure in which men hold power. “Laboring Toward Wholeness: A Training on Dismantling Patriarchy” addresses the history and impact of systemic patriarchy and looks at how God calls followers to respond.

The curriculum “invites us to consciously question what we’ve been taught the Bible says about God, men and women, and the ways we’ve traditionally functioned in religious contexts,” said Jenny Castro, one of the writers and former coordinator of Women in Leadership. “It challenges us to lean into new understandings that will transform how we show up in our relationships, families and faith communities — and to reimagine what is possible when we creatively embrace the fullness of wisdom and the gifts women among us offer.”

An introductory webinar was held May 27 and has been archived at mennonite­usa.org/webinars. Materials can be downloaded at mennoniteusa.org/resource-­portal for a suggested donation of $20.

“ ‘Laboring Toward Wholeness’ offers a different perspective, rooted in the experiences of women of color who have lived, worked and worshiped among Mennonites for years, embracing this faith tradition as our own,” Castro said. “It dares to imagine what is possible when we all are invited to contribute to shape our collective faith and values.”

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