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Most Helpful Customer Reviews
5.0 out of 5 stars
Words Matter,
By
This review is from: Faithful and fair: Transcending sexist language in worship (Paperback)
A word can make a difference. This book speaks to the question of how Christians can be faithful to Scripture and church and at the same time use religious language in a way which will be fair to both women and men. How can we be inclusive without alienating many in the church?Keith Watkins was a professor of worship at Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis and has had 20 years of experience teaching and planning worship (at the time of publication). This involvement makes the book both practical and realistic in effecting change within the church. The author develops several principles to be used in this time of transition--the time before churches reach the point of fully expressing truth and justice in nonsexist language. Watkins feels church will be more amenable to change if elements of the "masculine" aspects of God are retained while more of the "feminine" are included. He is willing to exclude certain hymns that are too difficult to adapt to more inclusive language. An important chapter is on the dynamics of change. Here Watkins emphasizes that effective strategy will avoid doing those things that set off people's emotional trigger mechanisms. Many times progress can be made without using certain words or labels that set up defenses that make a congregation unwilling to consider the truth behind the change. The last 18 pages comprise a workbook of Scriptural readings that the author developed as examples of what can be done to make them true to God who encompasses and transcends masculinity and femininity. Interspersed through the book are prayers which impressed me with their creative and full way of expressing God's attributes. After reading this book I was impressed by the extensive task before us. It will take more time and commitment to truth and justice than quickly suggesting a few word changes in the hymns before we start singing. Carefully thought out principles must guide us and this book is very helpful for that reason. Watkins is speaking primarily to readers who agree with the need for change. I would recommend "Faithful and Fair" to person who actively desire to work for more inclusive language in our churches. (This review was previously published in "Daughters of Sarah" Mar/Apr 1982.)
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