Fathers and Sons: The Search For A New Masculinity

After three decades of feminist influence, isn’t it time for a cease-fire? Or are men as a group still too privileged and powerful in comparison to women? Even at the third millennium it is more difficult for men than women to separate their sense of gender identity from the societal mandate to be economically successful, to be sexually aggressive, to acquire power over women and to compete constantly with other men, argues Mary Stewart Van Leeuwen. Whilst girls’ horizons have expanded, boys have remained restricted by traditional stereotypes. In this wide-ranging discussion of love, work and parenting in a changing world, Mary Stewart Van Leeuwen helps readers to understand some of the forces within which men as well as women are called to make responsible and just decisions about gender relations as God’s stewards and regents on earth. If Christians are to be serious about putting children first without putting women last, and without putting men on the sidelines of family life, then they need to work for structural as well as personal change. The ongoing challenge of gender reconciliation remains a vital part of our redemptive calling before God.