Reflections

“Some women followed him.”The gospel passage today might seem to project a diminu- tion of Jesus’ women followers, being possessed by evil spirits and being freed from demons. But the gospel writer does not intend it that way; he is simply sa- ying that among those who were healed, responded generously, and followed Jesus were women (Brendan Byrne). The passage need not be construed as portra- ying women with secondary or inferior roles to men.Since the early Christian Church women have played an important role and have signifi- cantly impacted the proclama- tion of the good news. Some even assumed leadership roles. Their role was not limited to do- mestic services, such as cooking, washing, mending, etc. (Byrne). Nowadays, we are witness to the ever-growing involvement and invaluable contribution of lay women in different areas of Church ministry. And in some areas, they are leading the way. The giftedness of women is a vi- tal element in bringing forward the work of the Church in our modern world. The need for their active participation may not be felt in some quarters, but it is a fact that women’s giftedness has already substantially impacted the evangelizing work of the Church and proven itself worthy of the task. Women’s active par- ticipation calls for recognition and more encouragement.
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