What is the reality of being African, woman, and Christian? In this collection of original essays, African women theologians write about the life and dreams, the sorrows and joys of African women in a continent where religion shapes the whole of life. The first two parts of the book describe the role of women in terms of culture, rites of passage, and daily life. Attitudes toward birthing and naming, marriage and widowhood, polygamy, prostitution, and death are all explored. The third part focuses on the church, reviewing biblical attitudes toward women, and showing how African women can and should contribute to the life of the Christian church.

Contributors:

Musimbi R. A. Kanyoro
Mercy Amba Oduyoye
Rosemary N. Edet
Anne Nasimiyu-Wasike
Daisy N. Nwachuku
Rabiatu Ammah
Judith Mbula Bahemuka
Lloyda Fanusie
Bernadette Mbuy Beya
Teresa M. Hinga
Anne Nachisale Musopole
R. Modupe Owanikin
Teresa Okure

""The themes in 'The Will to Arise' constitute the base of contemporary African women's theological scholarship. . . . At their most creative, these theologians affirm cultural traditions and criticize their failings, in order to lead the reader to new visions that can renew religious life in our various contexts.
--from the Foreword by Katie G. Cannon