Lecture Notes: Methodist Women's Ministry in the Early National Period

Introduction

• A small number of Methodist women in the early national period felt called to ministry.
• These women rejected traditional roles and defied gender biases.
• They conducted public ministries, often without male church approval.
• Their determination was inspired by writings from prominent women, primarily from England.

Influential Writings and Figures

Elizabeth Singer Rowe

• Wrote "Devout Exercises of the Heart" published in 1737.
• Although not a Methodist, her book was influential among Methodist women.
• The book emphasized prayer for speedy sanctification, appealing to Methodist women seeking sanctification.

Hester Ann Rogers

• Joined the Methodist Society in Macclesfield in 1774.
• Married James Rogers, a Methodist preacher.
• Witnessed John Wesley's death in 1791.
• Published writings emphasized entire sanctification.
• Her writings were printed and circulated widely from 1793.

Mary Bosanquet Fletcher

• Her journal was popular among American Methodist women.
• Wrote "Jesus Altogether Lovely" in 1766, popular among Methodist women.

Benefits of Methodism for Women

1. Conversion: Gave women a higher allegiance to God.
2. Worship: Provided a platform for public speaking and leadership.
3. Sermons: Praised feminine traits such as patience and love.
4. Social Justice: Allowed involvement in missions, temperance, and abolition activities.
5. Community: Offered a sense of home, security, and leadership training.

Women's Roles in Ministry

• The idea of being a minister's wife offered a sense of usefulness and public assertion.
• Four models for minister's wives by Leonard Sweet:
  1. Companion
  2. Sacrificer
  3. Assistant
  4. Partner

Women Preaching

• Some women took the step into preaching, like Fanny Newell and Jarena Lee.
• Fanny Newell:
  • Began ministry in 1809, married Ebenezer Newell.
  • Took on preaching responsibilities alongside her husband.
  • Her memoirs were widely circulated.
• Jarena Lee:
  • Born in New Jersey, published her memoirs in 1836.
  • Licensed to preach by Bishop Richard Allen.
  • Traveled extensively as an independent itinerant evangelist.
  • Advocated for the equality of sexes in ministry.

Evangelical Feminism

• Defined as the rejection of traditional female roles, defiance of gender biases, and the physical ability to perform public ministry roles.
• Exemplified by women like Fanny Newell and Jarena Lee.

Conclusion

• The lecture highlighted the contributions of Methodist women to ministry and the broader impacts of evangelical feminism during the early national period.
• The lecture also covered the shift in women's roles and the benefits that Methodism offered them.