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Women Rising: Learning to Listen, Reclaiming Our Voice
Fresh out of college, hating her job, and searching for meaning, Meghan Tschanz left everything to join a mission trip around the globe, and quickly witnessed oppression experienced by women that she never thought possible. Over the next several years, she befriended women around the globe who had survived sex trafficking, female genital mutilation, and violence so extreme Meghan wondered at the woman's survival. Through listening to their stories, Meghan started to notice a pattern that pointed to systems of injustice that held women back―systems that her childhood church had taught and in which she was complicit. She was changed. Returning to the United States, Meghan became keenly aware of how the teachings and messaging surrounding women in her own upbringing were part of the problem. In the process, she began to find her voice, one that spoke out against injustice and moved her into tension with her Christian community. Women Rising is Meghan Tschanz's personal journey of transformation. But it's also a Christian blueprint for anyone wanting to confront injustice against women while pointing to a biblical standard for gender equality. With humility and grit, Meghan calls Christian women to amplify their voices for righteousness―and she calls the church to listen.
208 pages, Paperback
First published May 11, 2021
22 people are currently reading
2643 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
April 17, 2021
This book is one woman’s story, but at the same time, it’s many women’s stories. And to a degree it’s my story. Tschanz details, first, the experience of being raised in the evangelical church, steeped in the misogyny of purity culture. Interwoven are the stories of women from around the globe who have survived heartbreaking acts committed against them, simply for inhabiting a female body.
But throughout the journey, God’s heart for women, all women, is evident. This book sounds the call for women to find and use their voices and for the Church to honor those voices. There were countless quotes that had me nodding along. I could have pulled many, but this one sums up the whole book succinctly: “Maybe there’s more freedom in Christ than you’ve been told.” Women Rising is a charge to walk boldly in that freedom.
But throughout the journey, God’s heart for women, all women, is evident. This book sounds the call for women to find and use their voices and for the Church to honor those voices. There were countless quotes that had me nodding along. I could have pulled many, but this one sums up the whole book succinctly: “Maybe there’s more freedom in Christ than you’ve been told.” Women Rising is a charge to walk boldly in that freedom.
October 29, 2021
Summary: A global mission trip awakens the author both to the injustices women face throughout the world and the patterns of subjection she learned in childhood that held her back and which she learned to name and use her voice to speak against.
Meghan Tschanz grew up in a good conservative church and participated in a good Christian ministry in college. But she also absorbed teaching that caused her a lot of harm. It all had to do with being a woman and not a man. She was taught about purity, something to be protected, like a lollipop kept in its wrapper. She was taught about modesty, and how she didn’t want to be the cause of men sinning, with the subliminal message that her body, or at least some parts of it were bad and to be ashamed of. She was taught that women lived for men’s needs and wants. Then there were the passes men made, the remarks bosses and customers made that reduced her to an object, eye candy for their pleasure.
All of that was in her history, but below the surface until a year spent on a mission trip around the world. She confronted the male dominance of the mission. She is traumatized when a man pleasures himself while looking at her while she plays tennis. And she entered into the heartbreaking ways women were abused around the world. Beaten and raped by husbands. Subject to female genital mutilation. Deceived and trafficked. One of the women she reached out to was murdered by a client.
Meanwhile, she became involved in a relationship with a young man also associated with the mission. She’s attracted but also increasingly uneasy with the ways she feels controlled and has to “stuff” parts of herself. Those around her see the difference, how she stifles her voice to be with him. All this culminates as she reflects on her experiences, both with the women, and with the people and structures that have shaped her life. After trying so hard to cope and help women cope, she realized that things would not change without men being held accountable. Women endured all sorts of abuse, while men rarely were held to account, or not at all. She recognized the structures of patriarchy both in society and in the church that sought to control and use women, but not to permit them to be equal partners in society or ministry. It was believed that if women stepped up, then men would step back. She exposes the structures and strategy used to keep women “in their place” and the deep pain women experienced, that she experienced.
This is an honest book–about everything from sexuality and bodies to the times she fell apart under the weight of what she saw, and how prayer and friends helped. It’s a book meant to encourage women to raise their voice, to speak into the injustice of patriarchal church structures and societal structures that constrain women but never expect men to change or be held responsible. This is also a book men need to read. We need to understand the pain we as men have inflicted. We need to understand how our own irresponsible lack of control of our desires have caused women to be ashamed of their bodies when we are the ones who should be ashamed. We need to face why power and control are so important to us. What do we fear? There is mystery in the relations between genders and many of us would rather control the mystery than extend the respect that we want by listening, learning, and understanding. Fear is the prelude to wonder in the knowledge of God. The sad tragedy of patriarchy is not only are we robbed of half the gifts of the church, but we settle for the illusion of power and control when we could have wonder.
All this is to say, men, read this book. Some of it will (or should) break your heart. And it will help us support our sisters who are rising, reclaiming their voices, and bringing their whole selves into the lives of our communities.
____________________________
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary review copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Meghan Tschanz grew up in a good conservative church and participated in a good Christian ministry in college. But she also absorbed teaching that caused her a lot of harm. It all had to do with being a woman and not a man. She was taught about purity, something to be protected, like a lollipop kept in its wrapper. She was taught about modesty, and how she didn’t want to be the cause of men sinning, with the subliminal message that her body, or at least some parts of it were bad and to be ashamed of. She was taught that women lived for men’s needs and wants. Then there were the passes men made, the remarks bosses and customers made that reduced her to an object, eye candy for their pleasure.
All of that was in her history, but below the surface until a year spent on a mission trip around the world. She confronted the male dominance of the mission. She is traumatized when a man pleasures himself while looking at her while she plays tennis. And she entered into the heartbreaking ways women were abused around the world. Beaten and raped by husbands. Subject to female genital mutilation. Deceived and trafficked. One of the women she reached out to was murdered by a client.
Meanwhile, she became involved in a relationship with a young man also associated with the mission. She’s attracted but also increasingly uneasy with the ways she feels controlled and has to “stuff” parts of herself. Those around her see the difference, how she stifles her voice to be with him. All this culminates as she reflects on her experiences, both with the women, and with the people and structures that have shaped her life. After trying so hard to cope and help women cope, she realized that things would not change without men being held accountable. Women endured all sorts of abuse, while men rarely were held to account, or not at all. She recognized the structures of patriarchy both in society and in the church that sought to control and use women, but not to permit them to be equal partners in society or ministry. It was believed that if women stepped up, then men would step back. She exposes the structures and strategy used to keep women “in their place” and the deep pain women experienced, that she experienced.
This is an honest book–about everything from sexuality and bodies to the times she fell apart under the weight of what she saw, and how prayer and friends helped. It’s a book meant to encourage women to raise their voice, to speak into the injustice of patriarchal church structures and societal structures that constrain women but never expect men to change or be held responsible. This is also a book men need to read. We need to understand the pain we as men have inflicted. We need to understand how our own irresponsible lack of control of our desires have caused women to be ashamed of their bodies when we are the ones who should be ashamed. We need to face why power and control are so important to us. What do we fear? There is mystery in the relations between genders and many of us would rather control the mystery than extend the respect that we want by listening, learning, and understanding. Fear is the prelude to wonder in the knowledge of God. The sad tragedy of patriarchy is not only are we robbed of half the gifts of the church, but we settle for the illusion of power and control when we could have wonder.
All this is to say, men, read this book. Some of it will (or should) break your heart. And it will help us support our sisters who are rising, reclaiming their voices, and bringing their whole selves into the lives of our communities.
____________________________
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary review copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
April 2, 2021
A really powerful memoir delving into some hard topics. Meghan does an incredible job of telling her story and letting the reader enter in to a world of ministry to victims of sex trafficking. You can see through her story how God changed her way of seeing the world. I felt so many emotions as I read this book. Women are constantly subjected to so much across the world. These power structures between men and women are dangerous and the church needs to wake up to complicity in it.
August 11, 2021
Women Rising was a timely and interesting read. Tschanz calls it a memoir, but that is only a part of her book. It’s also part research paper. Yes, research paper.
Tschanz is very clear about her intentions for writing this book—that she wants to tell her story, help others avoid her mistakes, and continue bringing God’s kingdom to earth. Each chapter starts with an inspiring quote and then Tschanz discusses her upbringing in a very strict church and her experiences during her own missions. She is humble in sharing the areas where God called her to grow and she’s honest about mistakes she has made along the way. Tschanz is vocal throughout the book about the demeaning and “less-than” way women are often viewed in many cultures, religions, and societies, our own very much included. Her call for women to seek justice and equity is timely and powerful. She references current books, data, and research to support her points. Many different issues are covered including female genitalia mutilation, sex trafficking, abuse, sexual assault and harassment, rape, and murder. Reader, if you have very little experience with those issues, be ready, because Tschanz doesn’t sugar coat it (nor should she). These are issues that we need to address and talk about.
I hate being the critical one here, because I was impressed with the stories Tschanz shared and her honesty. I know she calls this book a memoir, so let’s disregard the research she includes and look at the book from purely a memoir standpoint: she ends the book with getting married. I want to see more of her growth other than her egalitarian marriage and learning to embrace her sexuality. What about your current work? Perhaps I missed that? Tschanz discusses fantastic points about marriage and sex, but ending the book with that?
I know there is much support for this book and I understand why—there aren’t too many of these books in Christian circles, and Tschanz’s book will be a stepping stone for many men and women to stand up and say no to the patriarchy, the laws, and the social norms that are oppressing women. However, at the end of the book, I found myself thinking, “So what? There are a lot of books that discuss these same issues.” Tschanz spends much of the book sharing her experiences overseas and how she’s working on dismantling her own White supremacy (we all have some, White people!) and White-saviorism. She is passionate about women’s rights, equity, and justice, but I wanted to know how her transformation from all of her experiences has changed her and what she’s doing about it now. The experiences she shared felt disconnected to the original intent to continue God’s kingdom. What’s the next step? What’s our responsibility as Christians, as women, as men to work towards God’s kingdom on Earth? There’s no quick fix, as Tschanz herself, humbly, discusses; nevertheless, why write this book if you aren’t going to share tangible ways to grow, to fight, to change? We can all look up the statistics about FGM and how poorly the US ranks in maternal care; however, as a woman who has seen and experienced so much, please share with the reader how God is calling you to stand for justice. (She does end the book encouraging her readers to step into God’s love and embrace who He made us to be. She also asks some very important questions throughout, yet they needed to be unpacked.)
Tschanz’s sexual harassment and assault are unfortunately common for many of us. Her experiences on mission trips are unfortunately common. Yes, many women are locked into the confines of enforced gender roles. So now what? How do we move past the statistics and the data and bring change? How do we bring God’s kingdom to our communities, our churches, our states, and our world? How do we find our own voice? What’s next?
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC.
Tschanz is very clear about her intentions for writing this book—that she wants to tell her story, help others avoid her mistakes, and continue bringing God’s kingdom to earth. Each chapter starts with an inspiring quote and then Tschanz discusses her upbringing in a very strict church and her experiences during her own missions. She is humble in sharing the areas where God called her to grow and she’s honest about mistakes she has made along the way. Tschanz is vocal throughout the book about the demeaning and “less-than” way women are often viewed in many cultures, religions, and societies, our own very much included. Her call for women to seek justice and equity is timely and powerful. She references current books, data, and research to support her points. Many different issues are covered including female genitalia mutilation, sex trafficking, abuse, sexual assault and harassment, rape, and murder. Reader, if you have very little experience with those issues, be ready, because Tschanz doesn’t sugar coat it (nor should she). These are issues that we need to address and talk about.
I hate being the critical one here, because I was impressed with the stories Tschanz shared and her honesty. I know she calls this book a memoir, so let’s disregard the research she includes and look at the book from purely a memoir standpoint: she ends the book with getting married. I want to see more of her growth other than her egalitarian marriage and learning to embrace her sexuality. What about your current work? Perhaps I missed that? Tschanz discusses fantastic points about marriage and sex, but ending the book with that?
I know there is much support for this book and I understand why—there aren’t too many of these books in Christian circles, and Tschanz’s book will be a stepping stone for many men and women to stand up and say no to the patriarchy, the laws, and the social norms that are oppressing women. However, at the end of the book, I found myself thinking, “So what? There are a lot of books that discuss these same issues.” Tschanz spends much of the book sharing her experiences overseas and how she’s working on dismantling her own White supremacy (we all have some, White people!) and White-saviorism. She is passionate about women’s rights, equity, and justice, but I wanted to know how her transformation from all of her experiences has changed her and what she’s doing about it now. The experiences she shared felt disconnected to the original intent to continue God’s kingdom. What’s the next step? What’s our responsibility as Christians, as women, as men to work towards God’s kingdom on Earth? There’s no quick fix, as Tschanz herself, humbly, discusses; nevertheless, why write this book if you aren’t going to share tangible ways to grow, to fight, to change? We can all look up the statistics about FGM and how poorly the US ranks in maternal care; however, as a woman who has seen and experienced so much, please share with the reader how God is calling you to stand for justice. (She does end the book encouraging her readers to step into God’s love and embrace who He made us to be. She also asks some very important questions throughout, yet they needed to be unpacked.)
Tschanz’s sexual harassment and assault are unfortunately common for many of us. Her experiences on mission trips are unfortunately common. Yes, many women are locked into the confines of enforced gender roles. So now what? How do we move past the statistics and the data and bring change? How do we bring God’s kingdom to our communities, our churches, our states, and our world? How do we find our own voice? What’s next?
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC.
May 23, 2021
She uses marriage as evidence of the goodness of God and that never sits well with me. What about all the women she wrote about stuck in sex trafficking? Where is the goodness of God for them if marriage is a measure? I just think it is discouraging messaging and threw off the whole book for me.
April 19, 2022
What a great book to read as a Christian and as a Woman. This was a mix of a memoir, theology and good old fashion "call out". From purity culture to white saviourism, the coverage was vast and crucial. I loved the transparency Meghan gave when she told of her life in missions. I also loved the call for more women to speak out!
I really found myself being seen and heard in this book and I felt like Megha did a great job of addressing her own biases.
I really found myself being seen and heard in this book and I felt like Megha did a great job of addressing her own biases.
September 19, 2022
This book will break you and remake you in the area of gender equality, if you let it!
I appreciated Meghan's personal experience as a missionary to various countries, trying to help change and expose issues of sex slavery and women's rights globally. She shared heart breaking stories of women who have been raped, murdered, sold, enslaved, impoverished, abused and treated as less than equal.
But this was more than a memoir of overseas missions and work in the States. Meghan delved into statistics, she looked at purity culture, she tore down patriarchy piece by piece with full conviction of what she knows to be true, and biblical, and healthy.
Meghan talked about what equal-partnership marriages can look like and she even busted myths about virginity and hymens! Myths I believed to be true until this year--and I'm almost 40years old!! There is no significant difference between the hymens of girls who have not had sex, those who have had sex, and even those who've given birth to babies! There is no physical proof of this construct we call "virginity."
This book is incredibly moving and convicting. Meghan asked the question that I have been asking for years: if so many women are sexually abused, how many men are sexually abusive? And I have long suspected that too many of our own uncles, cousins, brothers, fathers and friends don't recognize certain things they do that are sexually abusive. They need to be re-educated about purity-rape culture and patriarchy which feed the lies that perpetuate sexual abuse and trauma! Meghan's book is a great place to start for such a mind-makeover and cultural shift!
Meghan encouraged women to stand up and use their voices. I was personally uplifted by this, and I am following through.
Thank you, Meghan, for this passionate work of feminist art!
I appreciated Meghan's personal experience as a missionary to various countries, trying to help change and expose issues of sex slavery and women's rights globally. She shared heart breaking stories of women who have been raped, murdered, sold, enslaved, impoverished, abused and treated as less than equal.
But this was more than a memoir of overseas missions and work in the States. Meghan delved into statistics, she looked at purity culture, she tore down patriarchy piece by piece with full conviction of what she knows to be true, and biblical, and healthy.
Meghan talked about what equal-partnership marriages can look like and she even busted myths about virginity and hymens! Myths I believed to be true until this year--and I'm almost 40years old!! There is no significant difference between the hymens of girls who have not had sex, those who have had sex, and even those who've given birth to babies! There is no physical proof of this construct we call "virginity."
This book is incredibly moving and convicting. Meghan asked the question that I have been asking for years: if so many women are sexually abused, how many men are sexually abusive? And I have long suspected that too many of our own uncles, cousins, brothers, fathers and friends don't recognize certain things they do that are sexually abusive. They need to be re-educated about purity-rape culture and patriarchy which feed the lies that perpetuate sexual abuse and trauma! Meghan's book is a great place to start for such a mind-makeover and cultural shift!
Meghan encouraged women to stand up and use their voices. I was personally uplifted by this, and I am following through.
Thank you, Meghan, for this passionate work of feminist art!
November 6, 2022
This was a well written vulnerable tale of a woman’s life! Sadly it is familiar to all women! It’s horrifying to realize how “normal” sexual assault and objectification is to women!! We all have similar stories to tell, just different degrees of assault separate us! Oh Lord I believe you have come to set the captives free!! All of us! I believe you love WOMEN and men. We are created in your image for relationship with you! I agree with the author- Lord show us all how to use our voices- how to scream!
April 21, 2021
Half memoir, half research, 100% a message the church (and everyone else) needs to hear
This book is a game-changer. Meghan recounts her own experiences and seamlessly weaves them with pressing, important issues that concern not just women but all of society today. She takes the lid off of topics the church is afraid to talk about and invites us to consider if the doctrines we’ve accepted actually produce good fruit. (Spoiler alert, many of them do the opposite).
Racism, violence, human trafficking, domestic violence, pornography, gender-based discrimination - what do they all have in common? They hold their roots in failure to see the Imago Dei in people. Too often the church and the world has failed to honor the Imago Dei in women.
What I appreciate about this so much is how much Meghan is willing to admit she got wrong at first, and the frank honesty that she is still learning. She doesn’t try to make herself the hero of the story but portrays herself as she is: one who encountered difficult situations and heard heartbreaking stories, then asked “what do we need to do differently?”
Statistics often don’t change minds, but stories do. If you want to know more about egalitarianism and true gender equity but aren’t sure where to start, listen to Meghan’s story. It’s the perfect place to start.
This book is a game-changer. Meghan recounts her own experiences and seamlessly weaves them with pressing, important issues that concern not just women but all of society today. She takes the lid off of topics the church is afraid to talk about and invites us to consider if the doctrines we’ve accepted actually produce good fruit. (Spoiler alert, many of them do the opposite).
Racism, violence, human trafficking, domestic violence, pornography, gender-based discrimination - what do they all have in common? They hold their roots in failure to see the Imago Dei in people. Too often the church and the world has failed to honor the Imago Dei in women.
What I appreciate about this so much is how much Meghan is willing to admit she got wrong at first, and the frank honesty that she is still learning. She doesn’t try to make herself the hero of the story but portrays herself as she is: one who encountered difficult situations and heard heartbreaking stories, then asked “what do we need to do differently?”
Statistics often don’t change minds, but stories do. If you want to know more about egalitarianism and true gender equity but aren’t sure where to start, listen to Meghan’s story. It’s the perfect place to start.
April 21, 2021
This is a wonderful little book! I say little because I was able to read it in one sitting, but it certainly is a powerful book that may take some time to digest. A disclaimer about my review - I am reading this book from the perspective of someone who recently has decided not to go to church or continue to identify as Christian.
What I really loved: Meghan’s honesty and her passion to know better and do better.
What made it difficult: The memories it brought up for me. I was raised in the same version of Christianity and grew up hearing all the same things. I even went on a missions trip organized by the same organization Meghan worked for, and thought about doing the World Race.
I have to admit, sometimes it feel hopeless to continue trying to address some of the egregious sins of the church and particularly the evangelical church, and I have to wonder, “why bother?”. But then I remember, often the kinds of words Meghan shares in her work are not meant for the ears of abusers, but more often for the ears of survivors who need to know that their voices are being heard, and that they are worthy of dignity and respect. I certainly needed to hear that. All and all, would recommend this book to anyone wanting to learn more from a Christian feminist perspective. Meghan’s truth telling and bravery are stellar!
What I really loved: Meghan’s honesty and her passion to know better and do better.
What made it difficult: The memories it brought up for me. I was raised in the same version of Christianity and grew up hearing all the same things. I even went on a missions trip organized by the same organization Meghan worked for, and thought about doing the World Race.
I have to admit, sometimes it feel hopeless to continue trying to address some of the egregious sins of the church and particularly the evangelical church, and I have to wonder, “why bother?”. But then I remember, often the kinds of words Meghan shares in her work are not meant for the ears of abusers, but more often for the ears of survivors who need to know that their voices are being heard, and that they are worthy of dignity and respect. I certainly needed to hear that. All and all, would recommend this book to anyone wanting to learn more from a Christian feminist perspective. Meghan’s truth telling and bravery are stellar!
October 3, 2022
Women Rising is heartbreaking, infuriating, inspiring and healing all at once. Meghan's writing is captivating and I could easily have read the entire book in one sitting had I had the time. Whilst sharing her own story, she also highlights the stories of other women who have been oppressed and abused by different systems of power - primarily that of patriarchy - and people in positions of power across cultures. I really appreciated her dedication to learning and listening, her ability to admit where she had gone wrong herself and her vulnerability as she shared her own struggles. This book will break your heart but it is well worth reading, and it encourages my heart greatly to see that there are men reading it and reviewing it as well.
April 7, 2022
This book really hit some spots in my heart. This is not great literature but there is so much to think about and this woman speaks many things that I need to hear and understand. I wish I could get everyone to read at least portions of this book so that we could change some mindsets and open the doors to making real change and promise for so many women who are currently trapped in selling their bodies or having their bodies trafficked. We all have much to learn.
Quotes to remember:
"Though well-meaning, volunteers often travel to these countries with not much more than their passion and their desire to do good. Little regard is paid to understanding the historical background and cultural contexts they are entering. Much emphasis is placed on such volunteers having the right solutions to the country's issues without listening to and partnering with the people they intend to help." - Layla F. Saad
"If one in five, women globally is raped, how many men rape? One in five, one in ten, one in a hundred? It's a number we don't know, because we don't talk about the one who does the raping, just who is raped. We talk about the victim, not the perpetrator. The mess is 'Don't get raped,' not ' Don't rape'."
"It took me feeling compassion for someone I thought was evil to change the way I saw sin. It was clear that this man was not purchasing the girl because he wanted to cause her harm (even though it was harming her); he was purchasing her because he was desperate to feel loved. When it came down to it, the root of my sin was the same. We were both incredibly insecure. The man difference was what we did with that insecurity. I thought good deeds would finally give me the love I craved, and he wanted the companionship that he thought was due him."
"While Martha is doing what a 'good' woman should, preparing the home with domestic tasks, Mary chooses instead to sit at the feet of Jesus. This is doubly offensive: not only is Mary neglecting her responsibilities to care for the home but she is sitting at the feet of a rabbi, which in that culture meant you wanted to train to become a rabbi yourself. Mary sitting at the feet of Jesus breaks with the strict cultural rules that kept women in the home and prevented them from learning and teaching. Martha is offended by Mary's act of rebellion and says to Jesus, 'Lord, don't you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!' Jesus responds by saying, 'Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not bet taken from her.' In that one sentence Jesus encourages and praises Mary for breaking the old rules."
"It's disturbing to me that prominent evangelical pastors who call for strict gender roles sound similar to men who buy women in bars in Southeast Asia. They both focus on the need for women to respect men, while requiring nothing of the men. Prominent evangelical Emerson Eggerichs writes, 'This is not about the husband deserving respect; it's about the wife being willing to treat her husband respectfully without conditions.'"
"For years I had been too afraid to use my voice, and now it felt like it was costing too much. It seemed like each time I said what I really thought, what I believed deep down to be God's heart, I was rejected. I was trying hard to do justice to the women I had met around the world, but it felt like the church didn't want justice for them."
"It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat." -Theodore Roosevelt
Quotes to remember:
"Though well-meaning, volunteers often travel to these countries with not much more than their passion and their desire to do good. Little regard is paid to understanding the historical background and cultural contexts they are entering. Much emphasis is placed on such volunteers having the right solutions to the country's issues without listening to and partnering with the people they intend to help." - Layla F. Saad
"If one in five, women globally is raped, how many men rape? One in five, one in ten, one in a hundred? It's a number we don't know, because we don't talk about the one who does the raping, just who is raped. We talk about the victim, not the perpetrator. The mess is 'Don't get raped,' not ' Don't rape'."
"It took me feeling compassion for someone I thought was evil to change the way I saw sin. It was clear that this man was not purchasing the girl because he wanted to cause her harm (even though it was harming her); he was purchasing her because he was desperate to feel loved. When it came down to it, the root of my sin was the same. We were both incredibly insecure. The man difference was what we did with that insecurity. I thought good deeds would finally give me the love I craved, and he wanted the companionship that he thought was due him."
"While Martha is doing what a 'good' woman should, preparing the home with domestic tasks, Mary chooses instead to sit at the feet of Jesus. This is doubly offensive: not only is Mary neglecting her responsibilities to care for the home but she is sitting at the feet of a rabbi, which in that culture meant you wanted to train to become a rabbi yourself. Mary sitting at the feet of Jesus breaks with the strict cultural rules that kept women in the home and prevented them from learning and teaching. Martha is offended by Mary's act of rebellion and says to Jesus, 'Lord, don't you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!' Jesus responds by saying, 'Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not bet taken from her.' In that one sentence Jesus encourages and praises Mary for breaking the old rules."
"It's disturbing to me that prominent evangelical pastors who call for strict gender roles sound similar to men who buy women in bars in Southeast Asia. They both focus on the need for women to respect men, while requiring nothing of the men. Prominent evangelical Emerson Eggerichs writes, 'This is not about the husband deserving respect; it's about the wife being willing to treat her husband respectfully without conditions.'"
"For years I had been too afraid to use my voice, and now it felt like it was costing too much. It seemed like each time I said what I really thought, what I believed deep down to be God's heart, I was rejected. I was trying hard to do justice to the women I had met around the world, but it felt like the church didn't want justice for them."
"It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat." -Theodore Roosevelt
March 29, 2022
I stumbled upon Meghan Tschanz on Instagram and started following her. Then when I realized she had written a book I knew I wanted to read it. While most of her social media posts are about Christian feminism (my all-time favorite subject), this is more of a memoir about how her views of women and the Church changed during a year-long missions trip around the world. Tschanz grew up in a traditional, evangelical church and was taught that men were leaders and "good" Christian women only aspired to be wives and mothers who submitted to the spiritual men in their lives. Even before she could articulate it, she knew that wasn't right, but sadly internalized it to think something was wrong with her not something wrong with the theology. After college she embarked on a year-long mission trip where she traveled with other young people and spent a month or two in different parts of the world. A lot of the places she went she was working with women who were in sexual slavery so it was hard to see (and read about). But, the lightbulb moment came for her when she started to realize that patriarchy was the real problem - and that there was an awful lot of patriarchy in the Church too. For every woman or girl rescued from brothels there are a dozen more being added - that's not to say don't try to help them or shut that trade down - but the real problem was the demand. Why were so many men willing to pay for sex and view these women and nothing more than objects? Realizing what her calling really was Tschanz came home ready to tell everyone what she had realized. But, sadly not everyone in her family or church were on board with her message. For many Christians "feminist" is liberal issue that doesn't belong in the Church and on the flip side for more liberal people "Christian" is seen as the problem. It's a hard space to be in and you feel alone. I know I have a LOT and I'm not trying to make a career out of writing about it like Tschanz is. While this isn't a book that "proves" feminist theology is correct (see The Making of Biblical Womanhood by Beth Allison Barr to start) it's a great memoir of one woman's experience of finding her God-given voice and using it for His kingdom.
Some quotes I liked:
"It's no wonder that vulnerable girls fall prey to men. How many movies feature a damsel in distress, a woman uncared for, unloved, and abused, and in rides a man who kisses her and makes it all better? This primes girls to look to men to save them, and far too often these men end up being abusers." (p. 79)
"Patriarchal culture is described on nearly every page of the Bible, from Genesis to Revelation. The question is whether these patriarchal norms are the point of the Bible or its backdrop...Jesus' very life stands in direct opposition to the patriarchal culture he was born into. Instead of conquering or ordaining himself to positions of power as past patriarchs in the Bible had, he repeatedly gives up power on behalf of those on the margins. And it makes me ask the question, 'Did Jesus come to save us from patriarchy too?'" (p. 141-143)
"It's disturbing to me that prominent evangelical pastors who call for strict gender roles sound similar to the men who buy women in bars in Southeast Asia. They both focus on the need for women to respect men, while requiring nothing of the men." (p. 144)
"...birth control is still seen as a women's issue, as if men do not contribute to the act of procreating." (p. 171)
Some quotes I liked:
"It's no wonder that vulnerable girls fall prey to men. How many movies feature a damsel in distress, a woman uncared for, unloved, and abused, and in rides a man who kisses her and makes it all better? This primes girls to look to men to save them, and far too often these men end up being abusers." (p. 79)
"Patriarchal culture is described on nearly every page of the Bible, from Genesis to Revelation. The question is whether these patriarchal norms are the point of the Bible or its backdrop...Jesus' very life stands in direct opposition to the patriarchal culture he was born into. Instead of conquering or ordaining himself to positions of power as past patriarchs in the Bible had, he repeatedly gives up power on behalf of those on the margins. And it makes me ask the question, 'Did Jesus come to save us from patriarchy too?'" (p. 141-143)
"It's disturbing to me that prominent evangelical pastors who call for strict gender roles sound similar to the men who buy women in bars in Southeast Asia. They both focus on the need for women to respect men, while requiring nothing of the men." (p. 144)
"...birth control is still seen as a women's issue, as if men do not contribute to the act of procreating." (p. 171)
September 24, 2024
This heart-felt, emotional memoir of the author’s journey through deconstruction is timely, powerful, and very joyful. Like many modern women, reconciling a lifetime of religious instruction with the realities of true service and worldly need has become increasingly difficult. Seeking truth and affirming value amid toxic patriarchy and corrupt leadership inspired the author to redefine her mission and reach for a brighter path. I’m very grateful for her honesty, affirmation, and empathy with so many women who are deconstructing to make the world better, stronger, and kinder. Highly recommended.
September 9, 2022
This book took me on a JOURNEY. The author not only recognizes her white savior complex, racism, and power dynamic but learns from it all. Starting off with just telling us her story, the author slowly turns to how she learned from her experiences and how she is learning to do better every day. She encourages all of us to use our voices to dismantle the patriarchy and live Jesus’ Gospel—a Gospel of love, fighting injustices and oppression, and equality.
This is a great read for anyone who is looking for clarity about “biblical gender roles” and finding their place.
This is a great read for anyone who is looking for clarity about “biblical gender roles” and finding their place.
April 6, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. As someone who left the church because of the misogyny, racism and homophobia, this book was really a refreshing read. Iloved to read from a Christian disagreeing with these issues in the church and found it interesting how the author still was able to keep in her faith while rejecting these rooted issues in the church. I also loved how she talked about her learning about white supremacy in real time while doing mission trips and how Christianity subconsciously pushes that. Very educational even as someone who doesn’t believe anymore.
June 29, 2022
I did not expect this to be a memoir, due to the title, I guess, but it was. I like memoirs in general so that wasn’t a problem, just hadn’t read that part carefully when I ordered it. Meghan’s change in understanding of women/church/politics is similar to my own, so I related to a lot of what she wrote. I look forward to more of her writing in the future.
August 17, 2022
The stories in this book will touch your heart, and also provide great evidence of the need to dismantle the patriarchy.
April 22, 2021
In Women Rising, Meghan invites us to examine the bias and harmful rhetoric many women have taught by telling us her story and the stories of women she met around the world. Women will find their story in parts of Meghan’s story. Meghan’s growth invites our growth, and her hope is contagious. This is a book for anyone who wants their church and their world to be better for women.
May 11, 2021
Women Rising: Learning to Listen, Reclaiming Our Voice is one young woman’s feminist manifesto. Through vivid descriptions of her heartbreaking missionary work with women in sex trafficking, Meghan Tschanz draws parallels between the abuse and oppression of women in underprivileged countries with the patriarchal belief system of American evangelicalism.
I would categorize this book as memoir although some research and statistics as well as reflection points supplement the author’s personal story. Meghan invites us on her journey from recent college grad to missionary to newlywed to podcaster and blogger.
I think this book will be most powerful for young women who are starting to explore their faith outside of the American evangelical church and questioning their beliefs on gender roles. Meghan’s explanation of the problems with complementarianism is compelling, especially juxtaposed with the oppression she sees in Thailand and other areas of the world.
I appreciated her perspective on white saviorism, white supremacy, and white/male privilege. You can clearly see her heart for combating racism and other forms of discrimination along with sexism. She is attuned to issues of intersectionality and draws the reader into examining their own experience of privilege.
Through Meghan’s story, she invites us to share her passion for feminism. Meghan shows us how “learning to listen and reclaiming our voice” are the keys to establishing the full equality of women and men in value AND role. We long for and press on toward the day where this equality can be fully realized in our marriages, churches, and the world.
I received an ARC from NetGalley. Views are my own.
I would categorize this book as memoir although some research and statistics as well as reflection points supplement the author’s personal story. Meghan invites us on her journey from recent college grad to missionary to newlywed to podcaster and blogger.
I think this book will be most powerful for young women who are starting to explore their faith outside of the American evangelical church and questioning their beliefs on gender roles. Meghan’s explanation of the problems with complementarianism is compelling, especially juxtaposed with the oppression she sees in Thailand and other areas of the world.
I appreciated her perspective on white saviorism, white supremacy, and white/male privilege. You can clearly see her heart for combating racism and other forms of discrimination along with sexism. She is attuned to issues of intersectionality and draws the reader into examining their own experience of privilege.
Through Meghan’s story, she invites us to share her passion for feminism. Meghan shows us how “learning to listen and reclaiming our voice” are the keys to establishing the full equality of women and men in value AND role. We long for and press on toward the day where this equality can be fully realized in our marriages, churches, and the world.
I received an ARC from NetGalley. Views are my own.
March 28, 2022
Oh boy. I was super excited to read this after having discovered the author via New Evangelicals. I’ve struggled to get to chapter 12 and I’m not sure yet if I’ll be able to finish it.
I stopped at Chapter 12 as soon as she got to the Nordic Model being a solution for sex trafficking. This model is a darling of liberal feminists but I would encourage anyone reading or listening to find your local AF3IRM chapter, look into the Bodies Back Model, and follow people who have been in prostitution or trafficked.
I stopped at Chapter 12 as soon as she got to the Nordic Model being a solution for sex trafficking. This model is a darling of liberal feminists but I would encourage anyone reading or listening to find your local AF3IRM chapter, look into the Bodies Back Model, and follow people who have been in prostitution or trafficked.
July 5, 2021
This is the story of the author who sets out to make a difference in the world of oppressed women in third world countries and in the meantime discovers her own need for spiritual and emotional healing in her own life as she interacts with these victims of abuse worldwide. I did not agree with the author's politics and her endeavor to cast blame on certain political figures but found her story inspiring and transparent revealing her true motives as she encountered every victim's situation and the compassion she relayed to them through her loving and acceptance of them, through her altruistic actions.
May 12, 2021
Meghan Tschanz’s debut book Women Rising is an essential read for the evangelical church as it sorts out what to do about feminism, complementarianism, and egalitarianism. It is also useful for the post-evangelical or anyone wondering why patriarchy plays such a harmful role in not only Christianity but broader society.
Meghan shares her story as a young adult missionary going on an 11-month and a 6-month missions trip around the globe. (I appreciate that in hindsight and with changed perspective, she acknowledges the “white saviorism” complex that is often behind such missions, and she is honest about what she didn’t know at the time). She explains her background of growing up in the conservative evangelical church and the lessons she was taught about the role of women in marriage and in general. She, along with countless evangelicals, was taught that women ought to be submissive to men and that their voices were less important in leadership roles (if they were leaders at all).
These ideas about how things are “supposed to be” were challenged in her encounters with women in other parts of the world: women living in poverty and other challenging circumstances, women in the sex trade either because they were trafficked or see it as the only viable way to economically survive. She began to realize that the same system of oppression that was keeping women back across the globe was the very one taught by her church. She unpacks the idea of patriarchy and how it is upheld by the Christian church, and what Christians can do – from a biblical perspective, even – to change the influence patriarchy has. Meghan realizes she identifies as a feminist and an egalitarian, and explores what it means to be a Christian feminist and how she can use her voice to change power structures and ideologies that harm both women and men.
I highly recommend this book for people who are Christian and are curious about feminism, egalitarianism, or patriarchy, or even who are not and want to have their views challenged. Meghan adds an important voice to the conversation around how to dismantle patriarchy and she does it from within a Christian, Bible-oriented view.
Meghan shares her story as a young adult missionary going on an 11-month and a 6-month missions trip around the globe. (I appreciate that in hindsight and with changed perspective, she acknowledges the “white saviorism” complex that is often behind such missions, and she is honest about what she didn’t know at the time). She explains her background of growing up in the conservative evangelical church and the lessons she was taught about the role of women in marriage and in general. She, along with countless evangelicals, was taught that women ought to be submissive to men and that their voices were less important in leadership roles (if they were leaders at all).
These ideas about how things are “supposed to be” were challenged in her encounters with women in other parts of the world: women living in poverty and other challenging circumstances, women in the sex trade either because they were trafficked or see it as the only viable way to economically survive. She began to realize that the same system of oppression that was keeping women back across the globe was the very one taught by her church. She unpacks the idea of patriarchy and how it is upheld by the Christian church, and what Christians can do – from a biblical perspective, even – to change the influence patriarchy has. Meghan realizes she identifies as a feminist and an egalitarian, and explores what it means to be a Christian feminist and how she can use her voice to change power structures and ideologies that harm both women and men.
I highly recommend this book for people who are Christian and are curious about feminism, egalitarianism, or patriarchy, or even who are not and want to have their views challenged. Meghan adds an important voice to the conversation around how to dismantle patriarchy and she does it from within a Christian, Bible-oriented view.
May 15, 2021
I am on a Faith & Feminism group on Facebook because I think both Christianity and Feminism are important things in our world, not to mention that in some Christian circles, Feminism is considered a dirty word.
One of the admins of that group has recently written a book, Women Rising, so I thought I'd check it out.
I found this book to be a book of two halves, but I think that is mainly because of my own misconception. Both halves are important, and I can see why they are put together like this.
The first half of the book is an autobiography about missionary life, and tbh, I think it should be considered essential reading for all who are considering to go into missionary work. Though it is written with a focus on women, I think it should be read by young men who want to work in the field too. It is a very honest account of Meghan's journey through many countries, many experiences, and the many things she has learned, not least that she has her own privilege and has fallen foul of white saviourism.
The second half of the book is about how women are treated in the church in America (and it applies to England too, so I could say all the western World). This was the area of the book that I was most interested in, and it didn't quite go far enough for my liking, but will open the eyes of people who haven't thought this way before. Meghan has also given references to other books that will go deeper into the subject of patriarchy within Christianity, so I have added those to my wishlist.
All in all, this book is very easy to read, whilst talking about some tough subjects. As I said, I think this should be compulsory reading for everyone going into mission work, and is an easy introduction for people who are interested in the systemic patriarchy within Christianity (or indeed, it's a quick read for people who don't think there is a problem, to perhaps open their eyes a little).
The only thing I wish (and this is a rarity for me!) is that I didn't buy the kindle version, but a hardcopy that I could pass around. Definitely worth reading.
One of the admins of that group has recently written a book, Women Rising, so I thought I'd check it out.
I found this book to be a book of two halves, but I think that is mainly because of my own misconception. Both halves are important, and I can see why they are put together like this.
The first half of the book is an autobiography about missionary life, and tbh, I think it should be considered essential reading for all who are considering to go into missionary work. Though it is written with a focus on women, I think it should be read by young men who want to work in the field too. It is a very honest account of Meghan's journey through many countries, many experiences, and the many things she has learned, not least that she has her own privilege and has fallen foul of white saviourism.
The second half of the book is about how women are treated in the church in America (and it applies to England too, so I could say all the western World). This was the area of the book that I was most interested in, and it didn't quite go far enough for my liking, but will open the eyes of people who haven't thought this way before. Meghan has also given references to other books that will go deeper into the subject of patriarchy within Christianity, so I have added those to my wishlist.
All in all, this book is very easy to read, whilst talking about some tough subjects. As I said, I think this should be compulsory reading for everyone going into mission work, and is an easy introduction for people who are interested in the systemic patriarchy within Christianity (or indeed, it's a quick read for people who don't think there is a problem, to perhaps open their eyes a little).
The only thing I wish (and this is a rarity for me!) is that I didn't buy the kindle version, but a hardcopy that I could pass around. Definitely worth reading.
May 8, 2021
As someone who identifies as a Christian and a feminist, Women Rising appealed to me right away. Anytime I see that someone is encouraging women to trust themselves and speak up, I am interested.
In the book Meghan Tschanz utilizes her story and the stories of trafficked women she met as a missionary to examine and uncover the ways toxic theology causes harm. She tackles many important subjects including sexism, misogyny, racism, and domestic violence and urges us all to consider how we, certain theological perspectives, and the society at large contribute to harmful practices.
Meghan does this beautifully and humbly, never suggesting she is an expert or that she is always right. She opens herself up and admits when she's fallen short. She uplifts the voices of others and invites us all to reflect and grow as a community. To heal, in a way. I read the book in less than 24 hours and by the end not only did I feel empowered to use my voice, I felt like I had been seen. While my experience is not exactly the same as Meghan's, in her openness about the harm she has caused, I was able to become more vulnerable about how I've also caused harm. When she discussed her frustrations with the Church and family, I felt supported. I learned a lot from Meghan's stories and am thankful for her honesty and courage.
This book will surely appeal to those who identify as feminists, but I sincerely hope others read it as well. I grew up thinking feminism was just another "f" word, and if you feel that way too please don't let that keep you from picking up this book. If you go into it with an open mind and a willingness to listen and reflect, I believe you'll get a lot out of it.
In the book Meghan Tschanz utilizes her story and the stories of trafficked women she met as a missionary to examine and uncover the ways toxic theology causes harm. She tackles many important subjects including sexism, misogyny, racism, and domestic violence and urges us all to consider how we, certain theological perspectives, and the society at large contribute to harmful practices.
Meghan does this beautifully and humbly, never suggesting she is an expert or that she is always right. She opens herself up and admits when she's fallen short. She uplifts the voices of others and invites us all to reflect and grow as a community. To heal, in a way. I read the book in less than 24 hours and by the end not only did I feel empowered to use my voice, I felt like I had been seen. While my experience is not exactly the same as Meghan's, in her openness about the harm she has caused, I was able to become more vulnerable about how I've also caused harm. When she discussed her frustrations with the Church and family, I felt supported. I learned a lot from Meghan's stories and am thankful for her honesty and courage.
This book will surely appeal to those who identify as feminists, but I sincerely hope others read it as well. I grew up thinking feminism was just another "f" word, and if you feel that way too please don't let that keep you from picking up this book. If you go into it with an open mind and a willingness to listen and reflect, I believe you'll get a lot out of it.
April 4, 2022
I finished this book a few days ago but have been waiting to review it while I figure out what to say. Some parts of this book were really great, but other parts left me feeling a bit more “ehhhhh.” I like that she notes the problems with the model of short-term overseas work that she was involved in (among other things, the idea that totally untrained Western young people can go to less developed nations and do all these projects they have no experience in, plus the sort of “suffering tourism” feeling that these types of trips may have). But despite that, and despite her insistence that she really only could tell her own story, she did spend a significant chunk of the book talking about the various parts of that trip, so it still had a bit of a suffering tourism feel at some points, I think possibly because she drafted that part of the book first before realizing some of the problems with it. She was talking about women experiencing sex trafficking and FGM while also trying to present a personal story of feeling unworthy and unloved, but the two parts just didn’t tie together smoothly.
I liked it best after she finished the part about the trip; her writing was quite good later in the book.And I have to say, even in my less favorite parts of the book, I still appreciated her honesty—like when she wryly observed that suburban American kids probably didn’t have nearly as much experience with the perseverance and determination as the kids they were supposedly teaching those things too, and when she shared a really blunt but super helpful email exchange with an experienced field worker.
I liked it best after she finished the part about the trip; her writing was quite good later in the book.And I have to say, even in my less favorite parts of the book, I still appreciated her honesty—like when she wryly observed that suburban American kids probably didn’t have nearly as much experience with the perseverance and determination as the kids they were supposedly teaching those things too, and when she shared a really blunt but super helpful email exchange with an experienced field worker.
October 18, 2021
This book was like salve for my battered soul. It was reviving to read the account of another woman that had noticed all the same red flags with the church I had, and who struggled with doubts with herself and with her faith, and emerged unashamed to speak her truth.
I was once part of an evangelical Christian mega church, but I have recently found myself in moral opposition to many of the beliefs of evangelical Christians. This change has revealed the true character of people I had long thought to be dear friends and the narrow mindedness and weaponized scripture left me feeling deeply wounded.
It helped me hang on to my truth when I read Meghan's own similar experiences.
If the global sex trafficking, abuse and oppression of women and children troubles you, if you've never quite understood why women are subordinate in most christian traditions, if you've ever wondered how we can help women all over the world rise, then you will want to read this book.
P.S.- I also discovered her podcast Faith and Feminism, and while the subject matter of some episodes can be triggering, its life giving to hear Meghan and her guests discuss topics I've long wrestled with, and felt as if I was the only one who noticed these issues with the church. To me, they affirm that I'm not losing my faith just because I notice hypocrisy within the church. There are Christians out there who follow Jesus without perpetuating systems of oppression.
I was once part of an evangelical Christian mega church, but I have recently found myself in moral opposition to many of the beliefs of evangelical Christians. This change has revealed the true character of people I had long thought to be dear friends and the narrow mindedness and weaponized scripture left me feeling deeply wounded.
It helped me hang on to my truth when I read Meghan's own similar experiences.
If the global sex trafficking, abuse and oppression of women and children troubles you, if you've never quite understood why women are subordinate in most christian traditions, if you've ever wondered how we can help women all over the world rise, then you will want to read this book.
P.S.- I also discovered her podcast Faith and Feminism, and while the subject matter of some episodes can be triggering, its life giving to hear Meghan and her guests discuss topics I've long wrestled with, and felt as if I was the only one who noticed these issues with the church. To me, they affirm that I'm not losing my faith just because I notice hypocrisy within the church. There are Christians out there who follow Jesus without perpetuating systems of oppression.
May 9, 2021
If I could rate this book 10 stars, I would.
Meghan gives her readers a vulnerable look into the life she lived travelling around the world and working with women caught up in sex trafficking.
She talks openly about how her white supremacy and saviourism gave her a false sense of superiority in moments when her humility was what was needed most. She talks about unlearning harmful ideas around gender roles and sexuality.
She discusses how coming face to face with evil changed how she viewed God and sin and gave her a greater understanding and sense of compassion for both men and women
Meghan also discusses how a lack of resources and education leaves women in vulnerable situations.
I loved that she didn’t just discuss how patriarchy harms women, but also men. Meghan acknowledges that patriarchal gender roles trap men in boxes from which there is no escape. They must fit the image or be thought of as less than or failing in their manhood.
Meghan’s book is a love letter to conservative Christians everywhere to learn, to do better, and be better.
I highly recommend it to literally everyone who is interested in feminism and deconstructing toxic ideas about sexuality, race, and gender roles.
Meghan gives her readers a vulnerable look into the life she lived travelling around the world and working with women caught up in sex trafficking.
She talks openly about how her white supremacy and saviourism gave her a false sense of superiority in moments when her humility was what was needed most. She talks about unlearning harmful ideas around gender roles and sexuality.
She discusses how coming face to face with evil changed how she viewed God and sin and gave her a greater understanding and sense of compassion for both men and women
Meghan also discusses how a lack of resources and education leaves women in vulnerable situations.
I loved that she didn’t just discuss how patriarchy harms women, but also men. Meghan acknowledges that patriarchal gender roles trap men in boxes from which there is no escape. They must fit the image or be thought of as less than or failing in their manhood.
Meghan’s book is a love letter to conservative Christians everywhere to learn, to do better, and be better.
I highly recommend it to literally everyone who is interested in feminism and deconstructing toxic ideas about sexuality, race, and gender roles.
May 12, 2021
This book is amazing!!! Part memoir, part social justice manifesto, Meghan writes brilliantly about the events of her young adult life - and the striking revelations about misogyny and white supremacy inside the American evangelical church. She knocks it out of the park with the ability to tie together statistics about the mistreatment of women and her own experiences.
The greatest tragedy of the American evangelical church today is that they teach misogyny and I truly felt (as I am sure many, many others like me) that we could not be feminists or liberals and be a part of the church. Even beyond that, the message from the church is often that being a feminist and a liberal is not compatible with having a relationship with Jesus Christ. Meghan really knocks it out of the park debunking this and demonstrating her frustration with the church's refusal to change. Also loved her theories promoting equality not only within the church but within society and how patriarchy is a result of the Fall (I really like this theory and embrace it!).
So if you're a progressive Christian or are in the evangelical church and are thinking something just isn't right, this book is for you! I'm going to recommend this book to all of my Episcopal friends!
The greatest tragedy of the American evangelical church today is that they teach misogyny and I truly felt (as I am sure many, many others like me) that we could not be feminists or liberals and be a part of the church. Even beyond that, the message from the church is often that being a feminist and a liberal is not compatible with having a relationship with Jesus Christ. Meghan really knocks it out of the park debunking this and demonstrating her frustration with the church's refusal to change. Also loved her theories promoting equality not only within the church but within society and how patriarchy is a result of the Fall (I really like this theory and embrace it!).
So if you're a progressive Christian or are in the evangelical church and are thinking something just isn't right, this book is for you! I'm going to recommend this book to all of my Episcopal friends!
April 30, 2021
I could not put this book down! This is a must-read for church leaders, those in the mental health field, & anyone who wants to make a difference in a world where girls & women are shamed & blamed for being abused instead of believed, where where they are being exploited, dehumanized, trafficked and killed. The author’s writing lit a fire in my soul, as she weaves in her experiences in working with victims of human trafficking and an impressive amount of research in a way that gave me great clarity and hope for our broken world. I cannot recommend this book enough, as a trauma survivor, as a Christian who has been saddened and exhausted by the misogyny present in churches that is largely ignored. Tschanz’s book is empowering for girls and women everywhere, and is a call for equality within the church in a way that disrupts harmful teachings that have kept girls and women silent for far too long. The author challenges the status quo in a way that is needed more than ever, pointing out imbalances of power that are directly tied to the abuse of girls and women. Tschanz has done something wildly important by having this conversation. I can’t wait to read her next book!
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