The Holy Spirit in Feminist Theology

Is the doctrine of the Holy Spirit in Christian theology good news or bad news for women? Is the Holy Spirit in traditional dogma the guardian of the status quo or does it offer the dynamic possibility for change? How do the gifts of the Spirit, ecstatic and relational, inform feminist thinking of the Christian God?

Opinions on these key questions vary wildly. Feminist theology has a history of questioning God the Father and God the Son. There is clearly less material on the Spirit. On this day we will trace what Feminist theology has to say about the Holy Spirit and bring it together with traditional Christian doctrine of the Spirit. This dialogue opens up exciting new possibilities for both theology and the place of women in the church.

Anna-Claar is programme leader for lifelong learning at Sarum College. Her passion is in bringing the ancient biblical text alive to challenge and encourage any audience. She is currently researching the four women in Matthew’s genealogy of Jesus