Ordained Women in the Church of the Nazarene: The First Generation

by Rebecca Laird

’An oft-repeated folklore tells us that Phineas Bresee, one of [our] main denominational founders, was fond of saying, ’some of our best ’men’ are women!’Who were these women?Rebecca Laird offers a fascinating historical glimpse at 12 pioneer women ministers who helped shape the Church of the Nazarene, Pierece KnottMary Lee Harris CagleOlive M. WinchesterFrances Rye McClurkanSusan Norris FitkinThese women’s lives and ministries step from the pages of the early 20th century and speak to us today with significant questions past and present. Paper.

167 pages, Paperback

First published March 8, 1993

Reviews

[Rachel Hafler · Rating 5 out of 5]

This may be the most impactful book that I read this year. I absolutely loved learning about these female pastors, preachers, teachers, and leaders who shaped the early years of the Church of the Nazarene. I wish this was twice as long as it is- I want more! Also, this was written before I was even born and I really wish there was an updated version of it.
P.S. a used copy of this book that already had extensive margin notes/markings found its way onto our shelves and then into my hands. The notes were quite insulting to women in ministry and not supportive at all, reminding me why this book was necessary in the first place.

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fantastic read! I think it is a necessary one for everyone in the Nazarene tradition and useful for those outside it as well!