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Call for papers

The ordination of women has marked a significant chapter in the history of Lutheranism in Canada. From the first ordinations of Barbara Andrews and Elizabeth Platz in 1970 in the United States to those of Pamela McGee and Carol Qualley in 1976 and 1980, respectively, in Canada, women have made meaningful contributions to the church’s development.

When the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada was established in 1986, women comprised 147 of the 855 rostered clergy. In 2002, the Saskatchewan Synod elected Rev. Cindy Halmarson as the first woman bishop in the ELCIC. Four years later, Rev. Susan Johnson became the first woman to serve as National Bishop. Today, half of the ELCIC’s current bishops are women.

Consensus invites submissions for a special issue (Volume 47 Issue 2) commemorating this anniversary. We welcome articles that thoughtfully examine the history, current realities, and future directions of women’s ordination. Contributions may include research, personal reflections, or proposals for ministry leadership.

Possible Topics of Interest

  • Early challenges and achievements in women’s leadership
  • Experiences of female seminarians before policy changes
  • Theological and ecclesiological perspectives on gender and ministry
  • Reflections from those who were the first women pastors or deacons in their congregations
  • Ideas for ministry leadership over the next 50 years

While this call highlights the anniversary in Canadian Lutheranism, Consensus invites all contributions that engage with the topic from all theological traditions. We also invite perspectives on, but not limited to:

  • International Lutheran experiences
  • Ecumenical relations and milestones from full-communion partners
  • The impact of women’s ordination on future ecumenical initiatives

Submission Guidelines