Abstract
The religious phenomenon is multidimensional, highly complex, and susceptible to leading researchers to incorrect conclusions because it includes dimensions of symbolic power at various levels, including the sphere of spirituality analysis, which is often difficult to understand for those outside the field of belief. My study sought to understand whether or not religious leaders of free evangelical churches in Europe find legitimacy for women to perform leadership roles at all levels. Evangelical churches are a highly diverse and pluralistic universe, and their positions on the role of women are equally plural. From complementarian to egalitarian perspectives, we analyze a wide spectrum of arguments, justifications, and interpretations regarding women. However, contrary to what might be expected, the factors that standardize these positions are not mostly found within the same denominations, doctrines, or factors like the generational age of leaders. Rather, the culture of the country, including the influence of historical, political, religious, and social factors, as well as the origin of the churches’ founders, plays a significant role in determining the more or less prominent role of women. It is also important to note that this research was only possible because, within the evangelical community, this issue is openly discussed and presented. In other religious groups, this issue might not even be part of the agenda.
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
GENDER, PATRIARCHY, EVANGELICAL CHURCHES, CHRISTIANITY, WOMEN, SOCIOLOGY OF RELIGION, PROTESTANTISM
