Do you know what the people around you are thinking about female equality?

Baptists tend to live in their own church world, feeling far superior to those of other Christian denominations.  Oh, we may know a Catholic or two, or someone else who goes to a different denominational church.  We find them as relatives, friends and co-workers. 

We know very little of and care less of what others believe.

A week ago, a long-time friend was telling her son about bWe Baptist Women for Equality and he told her couldn’t believe that Southern Baptists still refuse to allow women deacons. He was raised a SBC Baptist and his family still is. He has moved away from that and attends a different Christian church.

Last week I was at a dentist’s office and told the dentist that I am going to Florida July 24 to speak at a conference to promote women’s equality.  He immediately started telling me that of course women are equal before God.  He seemed surprised that women still have to fight that battle. (www.senecafalls2.com/)

At my regular dentist office three months ago, the dental hygienist told me she was on the pastor search committee of her church.  The past 2 pastors of their church had been women, but according to a survey they had done, many of the members had indicated they wanted a male pastor this time.  She said they had loved the female pastors but just wanted a change.  That is the way it should be. 

Are all dentists for equality?  Of course not.  It just shows you that the people you come into contact with each day are Christians from all denominations, and many of them have already decided that women should be treated equally in the church.

Start conversations with people.  Find out what they believe.  You will be surprised at the people from all walks of life who are supportive. You’ll be surprised that many Southern Baptists men and women are ready for women in equal service.

You’ll also find those that believe everything is just fine in their Baptist church. One day, I asked a woman if her church had female deacons.  She said, “Oh, no!  I’m Baptist.”  I said, “I am, too, but I think Baptists should have women deacons.” 

Don’t be afraid to start the conversation.  Each conversation you have in which you promote women’s equality will add weight to the cause.

Get out there and talk!