But it’s not just about percentages, Maspaitella insisted. “It’s about feminist theology.” That’s why the church began, in 2019, a Women Mentoring Theology program to empower women preachers. “We think this is a unique context in the Maluku Protestant Church in that we are 770 local congregations,” said Maspaitella, “There are a number of challenges—and part of the answer to those challenges depends on theology.” Maspaitella believes that strengthening and developing theological thinking among women pastors leads to strengthening entire local communities. “For example, we would see movements to advocate for shelters or safe houses for women and children,” he said. “Communities will become more equal, peaceful, and inclusive.” The island communities cope with many challenges. “We are a disaster-prone area, with earthquakes, forest fires due to droughts, floods, and even tsunamis,” said Maspaitella. “In 2020, we were dealing with the COVID pandemic, which disproportionately affected women, children, and persons with disabilities.” Empowering women with equal access to technology remains vitally important, Maspaitella believes. “Women theologians have powerful hearts and powerful communication with people,” he said. “Women theologians can give answers on these issues. |
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