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Combining the themes of Women’s History Month and Holy Week in a blog provides a rich opportunity to explore the intersection of spirituality, social progress, and the contributions of women throughout history. I find significance this Women’s History Month which ends with Holy Week. Both highlight their importance in recognizing the achievements of women and reflecting on the sacred events of the Christian tradition.

• Mary, Mother of Jesus: Many are familiar with Mary’s presence during Holy Week, particularly her journey alongside Jesus and her experience at the foot of the cross.

• Mary Magdalene’s portrayal in historical texts has varied considerably over time. In the Gospels, she is often mentioned as one of Jesus’ followers, present during key events such as the crucifixion, burial, and resurrection. However, her exact identity and relationship with Jesus have been subject to interpretation.

• In some early Christian traditions, Mary Magdalene was conflated with other biblical figures, leading to misconceptions about her character, such as being identified as a repentant prostitute.

• The Gospel of Mary, a Gnostic text discovered in the late 19th century, portrays Mary Magdalene as a significant spiritual leader among Jesus’ disciples, with insights and teachings not found in canonical texts.

• Modern Interpretations by many feminist scholars have sought to reclaim Mary Magdalene’s narrative from centuries of misrepresentation, emphasizing her role as a disciple and leader among Jesus’ followers.

• In contemporary spirituality, Mary Magdalene is often seen as a symbol of redemption and transformation, representing the possibility of renewal and spiritual awakening.

Lesser-Known Women Disciples

While Mary Magdalene and Mary, the mother of Jesus, are well-known figures in Holy Week narratives, several other women disciples played significant roles in Jesus’ ministry and the events of Holy Week.

• Joanna, Herod’s household manager, Susanna, and others are mentioned in Luke 8:3, as women who accompanied Jesus and the apostles, providing for them out of their own resources.
• She is specifically named as one of the women who discovered the empty tomb and witnessed the resurrection of Jesus. Luke 24:9-10
• Salome, not to be confused with Herodias’ daughter of the same name, is mentioned in Mark 16:1, as one of the women who followed Jesus and ministered to him in Galilee.
• She is also noted as being present at the crucifixion and visiting the tomb on the morning of the resurrection.

These lesser-known women disciples, though their stories are less prominent in the biblical accounts, were nevertheless integral to Jesus’ ministry and the events of Holy Week, demonstrating the diverse roles women played in the early Christian community.

Many historical women have represented spirituality and led social justice movements. A brief mention of how they are recognized during Women’s History Month show how they may have represented, from the beginning of time to now, “God is My Strength and Portion Forever”. Psalm 73:21-26. 

Intersectionality and Women’s History Month

• Hildegard of Bingen: Hildegard contributed to faith and spirituality during the medieval period, through her theological writings, musical compositions, and visions.
• Sojourner Truth: Sojourner Truth’s advocacy for women’s rights and her intersectional approach to spirituality and social justice, during the 19th century, are well documented.

Contemporary Leaders include Dr. Serene Jones and Rabbi Sharon Brous.

• Dr. Jones’ leadership commemorates her time as the first woman president of Union Theological Seminary, her scholarly work on theology and feminism, and her commitment to fostering inclusive faith communities.
• Rabbi Brous’ efforts promoted interfaith dialogue, social activism, and spiritual renewal through her leadership at IKAR, a Jewish congregation in Los Angeles.

Women’s History Month celebrates the diverse contributions of women across various identities, including race, ethnicity, sexuality, and socioeconomic status, highlighting the interconnected nature of women’s experiences and struggles.

Inclusive faith communities address barriers emphasize the importance of creating inclusive faith communities where all individuals, regardless of gender or other identities, feel welcomed and valued. Women continue to face ongoing barriers within religious contexts, including discrimination, inequality in leadership roles, and restrictive interpretations of religious texts.

Your Call to Action – reflect on your roles in supporting the advancement of women’s rights within our faith communities and broader society.

Shared by Cecelia Benford, DARC LLC