In Her Voice

What are you hoping to find in Sunday sermons on the gospel? Ask a group of people this question, and you'll probably find an array of answers. Perhaps they are looking for good biblical scholarship or contemporary relevance. Some might be seeking fresh and unusual perspectives or spiritual nourishment. Others might need guidance in their faith journey for the coming week, or help in understanding faith and living out discipleship.

You will find all these things and more here in this book. In Her Voice: Raising Women's Voices in Preaching the Gospel contains Sunday gospel reflections based on sermons delivered as podcasts for the weekly series Australian Women Preach. They have been written by a diverse group of Australian women who are passionate about Scripture and preaching the Word. The podcast and this companion book aim to normalise the voice of women preaching in a context where many women are excluded from doing so in Sunday worship. When you read this selection of intelligent, heartfelt, and stirring reflections, you will surely wonder why.

It has been a joy to be part of the Australian Women Preach podcast and now this volume. For too long, Australian churches - particularly the Catholic Church - have silenced and ignored the voices of women. In Her Voice showcases the diversity, rich theological understandings, and preaching talents of women. Each reflection highlights the critical insights that women's wisdom and experiences bring to preaching the gospel. It is my hope that In Her Voice, alongside the Australian Women Preach podcast, will play some part in correcting the current inaction regarding the marginalisation of women in Australian churches. -- Dr Tracy McEwan, vice-president of WATAC Inc. and co-convenor of the Australian Women Preach team