I’m a woman who’s spent a good portion of my career occupying pulpits. In some circles a preaching woman is seen as a problem. Now comes a book that normalizes my life: “There’s a Woman in the Pulpit.” What a gift! I’ve always wanted to feel normal. That’s why I was so happy to contribute to this anthology —
There’s a Woman in the Pulpit: Christian Clergywomen Share Their Hard Days, Holy Moments & the Healing Power of Humor (SkyLight Paths Publishing).
My guess is that you know someone who would love to receive this book as a gift.
More than 50 clergywomen have written this anthology. I contributed an essay, which ended up first in the book. It leads off a section called “Fierce & Fabulous for Jesus.”
Reading the book, what strikes me is not only how diverse we clergywomen are, but also how classy! Whether choosing a high heel, parenting an autistic son who acts up while we preach, blessing one of the ships in Her Majesty’s fleet, bringing support to people under curfew in a conflict-ridden area, or belly dancing for a bit of exercise and relaxation, clergywomen know how to bring it on with grace and style.
It’s a privilege to live this clergy life and a sense of gratitude permeates the essays. Find out what it’s like to baptize an infant who has mere hours to live, or to impose ashes on a forehead. Answer the burning question: Do single clergywomen go on hot dates? Discover what it’s like to come out as a lesbian while serving a congregation.
Sometimes lighthearted and sometimes devastatingly close to the bone, the essays in this book will educate, inspire, and entertain you. But beware! The 68 essays are bite-sized. You may find yourself snacking on more than you meant to in a sitting.

The contributors are all RevGals. We come from 14 denominations, 4 continents, and are held together without a hierarchy or funding structure. We are simply stitched together the way woman know how to do, with love and connection and a heartfelt response to each other’s stories.
Disclosure: Along with the other contributors, I was given one copy as payment for my essay. This book project is a love offering for the RevGals and all proceeds go to support that ministry.
PS: I invite you to join our photo roundup. If you’re a woman in a pulpit, take a photo with the book and tweet it! #RevGals #WomanInThePulpit.
Ruth, thank you so much for your beautiful essay in the book. It really sets the tone!
Your essay, first in the book, made me cry. Seriously. It was so well written and hit home deeply for me.
Thanks for letting me know that the essay spoke to you! It’s why we write, isn’t it?