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Words of Wisdom for Women's Ministry
Someone recently reminded me that while I had written columns on resources for men’s ministry, preaching ministry, youth ministry, children’s ministry, worship ministry, and others, I had failed to say anything about women’s ministry. This was by no means an intentional oversight. Today, I rectify that omission. Women’s ministries are a vital part of an effective church. Since I have little experience in the area of women’s ministry, I scoured the bookstores and libraries and inquired of friends. Here are three helpful books for those involved in leading women’s ministries.
Women’s Ministry in the 21st Century
(Group)
This book, edited by Beth Robinson, includes suggestions from a dozen contributors who have extensive local church experience. Chapters include "Fellowship and Fun," "Spiritual Growth," "Devotions," "Bible Studies," "Movie Nights," and "Celebrations and Special Events." The contributors cover much more, and each chapter contains numerous practical ideas. The volume is well organized for quick reference. The chapter on movie nights seems particularly innovative and helpful. For those who are interested, this resource is a companion volume to another fine book, Men’s Ministry in the 21st Century.
Women’s Retreats: A Creative Planning Guide
By Sue Edwards, Kelley Matthews, and Linda Robinson (Kregel)
Since retreats are such a vital part of women’s ministry, we would be remiss not to mention this excellent guide.
The authors discuss concepts like the creation of your planning team, creating your planning calendar, sample themes and activities, skits, decorations, and the like. This book is unabashedly practical and could well save a planning committee hours of unproductive work. It contains all you need to plan an effective women’s retreat.
Sue Edwards has degrees from Dallas Theological Seminary and Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. She has more than 20 years of experience in women’s ministry, and even teaches Christian education at Dallas. Kelly Matthews has a seminary degree from Dallas Theological Seminary and works as a freelance writer. Linda Robinson leads women’s ministry in an effective local congregation. Their varied backgrounds and experiences enhance the book.
Resource Guide for Women’s Ministry
By Linda McGinn Waterman (Broadman & Holman)
This book provides a nice blend of the theoretical and the practical. Some of the chapter titles include "Women and Hospitality" and "Women Leading Prayer." There is also an especially helpful chapter on creating groups for women with special needs, like single parents, divorcees, etc. Linda McGinn Waterman has degrees from Gordon College and Regent University, along with relevant practical experience. She is also on the board of John Maxwell’s INJOY organization.
Like almost all areas of ministry today, women’s ministry has changed. It has moved well beyond its traditional borders. These resources will provide you with a map and a compass.
PREVIOUS COLUMNS:
January 18, 2006 - Dealing With the Dark Side
January 4, 2006 - Libraries Without Walls
December 21, 2005 - Communication Concepts from Secular Circles
November 23, 2005 - Magnificent Help from the Magazine Rack
November 9, 2005 - Invigorating Volunteers; Developing Disciples
October 26, 2005 - Overcoming Overwhelm
October 12, 2005 - Big Ideas for Smaller Churches
September 28, 2005 - For You and Youth
September 14, 2005 - A Potpourri of Books
August 31, 2005 - A Potpourri of Web Sites
August 17, 2005 - Hart-to-Heart Talks
August 3, 2005 - Ken Can Help
July 20, 2005 - Easum Has Some Advice
July 6, 2005 - Finding Illustration Gold Mines
June 22, 2005 - Get Real with Bobb Biehl
June 9, 2005 - Let Len Lend a Hand
May 29, 2005 - A New Angle on Church Growth
May 15, 2005 - It's Your Turn
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