“In this class, I learned about the pivotal roles women played in the early Christian church and how their leadership contributed to the faith's growth and development. Understanding the historical context and the unique challenges faced by these women inspires me to advocate for diverse leadership models in today’s church. It also equips me with examples of resilience and innovation that I can draw upon as I pursue my ministry calling. I appreciated the course's comprehensive approach to historical research and its focus on empowering women within the church. The case studies provided real-life applications of theoretical concepts, making the material engaging and relevant. Additionally, the discussions prompted critical thinking about contemporary issues surrounding women’s leadership in ministry.”

“My study of women and leadership in early Christianity has revealed a complex of roles, influences, and challenges faced by women in a predominantly patriarchal society. As I delved into this subject, I found myself not only uncovering historical narratives but also reflecting on the implications of these lessons for contemporary discussions about gender and leadership. The key lessons I have learned from this study emphasise the resilience of women, the transformative potential of leadership, and the necessity of inclusive narratives in understanding the evolution of Christian thought. One of the most striking lessons from my study is the resilience exhibited by women in early Christian communities. Despite the societal constraints of their time, women played vital roles in the spread of Christianity. As I reflect on the lessons learned, I am reminded of the enduring relevance of these themes in our contemporary world. The resilience of women like Phoebe, Junia, and Lydia serves as an inspiration for modern leaders to embrace their unique strengths and navigate the complexities of their circumstances.”

“This class has significantly deepened my understanding of the crucial role’s women have played in both the early church and Christian history overall. I’ve learned how women were involved in ministry from the time of Jesus and how their leadership, though sometimes constrained by societal norms, was still acknowledged and valued. I greatly appreciated the historical depth and scholarly approach of the course, particularly Dr. Osiek’s research and insights. Her extensive knowledge of the topic provided a rich context for understanding the roles of women in early Christianity. I was especially moved by how the course demonstrated the transformative impact of the Gospel on family and social structures, and how it challenged the cultural norms of the time. The real-life examples from history made the subject matter both relatable and inspiring, showing that the Gospel’s message was and still is revolutionary.”