An Orthodox response to feminism and a practical guide to the spiritual life of women
“More Spirited Than Lions” gives an Orthodox response to feminism
“Though feminism greatly increased respect for women’s talents and abilities,
it became party to a widespread cultural attitude of self-pity and
grabbiness, the antithesis of Christian faith. Orthodoxy, with its examples
of noble, courageous women who sacrifice all for Christ, is the antidote, as
Sarah Cowie shows in this much-needed and excellent book.”
– Frederica Mathewes-Green
NPR Commentator and author of
many articles and books, including
“At the Corner of East and Now.”
Orthodoxy is considered to be “the best kept secret in America.” It is the
fastest-growing church in the United States. The beauty of Her services, the
longevity of Her Tradition, Her position as the original Church, founded by
our Lord Jesus Christ, are all highly attractive to world-weary Westerners
looking for depth and spiritual validity. And yet this very Church now finds
herself in a similar position in regards to feminism as the Catholic and
Episcopalian churches once were. Inroads have already been made concerning
liturgical language while dialogue is being encouraged regarding “women’s
role in the church,” especially in the question of women’s ordination.
How the Church answers this challenge, the decisions that will be made on all
levels – personal, parish, diocese, national and international – will effect
the life of the Church, spiritually and practically, for generations to come.
At this critical juncture comes a critical book: an examination of feminism
from an Orthodox perspective. Based on years of research, “More Spirited Than
Lions” traces the historical development of feminism, outlines its basic
assumptions and beliefs, assesses its contributions, and offers an Orthodox
critique to the feminist platform. Most importantly, it offers thoughts for
an alternative approach, namely the ideal of Christian womanhood, as found in
the Tradition of the Church.
Sarah Cowie has a degree in sociology from the University of New Hampshire.
She is the president of the Orthodox Author’s Association. Sarah’s poetry and
other writing has appeared in the Ligorian, Christianity Today, Messenger of
St. Anthony, The Orthodox Word and Handmaiden. Her daughter is a nun in an
Orthodox monastery. Sarah was once a committed feminist in the New Age
movement. The fruit of her pilgrimage from feminism to the Orthodox Church is
“More Spirited Than Lions.” |
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