A Homiletical Quandry - Bishop McKenzie
Black Women Preaching
A history maker as the first female bishop elected within the African Methodist Episcopal Church, Rev. Dr. Vashti McKenzie is an example of Black women's radical religious epistemologies. She is "radical" because she boldly steps out against assumptions which might limit her as a religious leader. Women preachers have long represented a homiletical quandry. Homiletics references the “art of preaching.” A quandry is something which is perplexing or peculiar. Many western cultures have long dictated that women should not publicly speak and certainly should not hold positions of authority. Therefore, preaching women are a homiletical quandry.
Because the M2M Research Network amplifies the voices of African descended (melanated) women in religious scholarship, religious leadership, and communal activism, we thought it ideal to share a few of these women preachers.
We think you will agree with us. What is perplexing is why it has taken so long for society to recognize the strength, the rich heritage and the clarity that these women bring!
McKenzie's sermon, "We're Gonna Get Through This" is a word of encouragement in these challenging times. Let us know what you think. And, please subscribe to M2M Research Network here on Substack.
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