Gender Inclusion Resources
women in the life, leadership, and ministry of the church
Here at North Atlanta Church of Christ we believe that God, through the work of the Holy Spirit, has purposed us for the noble task of witnessing to our community and the world through our diversity and inclusion. In John 17, Jesus prayed that we would achieve complete oneness in our differences. As we grow in this oneness, we become credible witnesses to the work of God in Christ to reconcile the world to himself. For us, this means we are striving to create an environment in which EVERYONE is genuinely loved, accepted, and engaged in serving, learning, and growing in our journey to be more like Christ.
In this environment, people may bring to the table their unique experiences, preferences, and strengths without sacrificing or minimizing core aspects of their identity, background, or perspective to belong. We seek to do this in the spirit of “grace and truth” with the cultural competency that Jesus himself modeled for us. We believe by the power and activity of the Holy Spirit we will foster a transformative environment of justice and inclusion.
Teaching Series: Gender in the Life & Leadership of the Church
In this 14-part series from March 2019, Don McLaughlin explores how we read Scripture, how we understand spiritual gifts, and how women and men participate in the life, leadership, and ministry of the Church.
Reflections on This Journey
Filmed in October 2019, these videos offer personal stories and thoughtful reflections from members of our church family who participated in our church-wide season of study, prayer, and discernment about the role of women in the life and leadership of our church.
One Family Worship Service
On October 6, 2019, the entire North Atlanta family gathered for a special One Family worship service. This service marked the culmination of over two years of study, prayer, and discernment by our congregation about the role of women in the life, leadership, and ministry of our church. During the service, our elders shared important changes that resulted from this collective journey.
Seminar: Women’s Roles in the Church
In this seven-session seminar from June 14-15, 2019, Dr. Ken Cukrowski – Dean of the College of Biblical Studies at Abilene Christian University – examines the role of women in the life, ministry, and leadership of the Church.
Elders’ Message About the Role of Women at North Atlanta
This message from our elders was shared during the One Family worship service on October 6, 2019. It reflects on our Spirit-led journey of study, prayer, and discernment regarding the role of women at North Atlanta and outlines upcoming changes in the life and leadership of our church.
30-Day Prayer Guide
This 30-day guide was an important part of our shared season of study, prayer, and discernment about the role of women at North Atlanta.
Diversity & Inclusion Resources
God’s Word about our Commitment to Justice, Mercy, and Faithfulness!
There is an old saying that says, “you find what you are looking for.” Paul in his instruction to Timothy says, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” [2 Timothy 3:16, 17] Our prayer is that these passages of scripture will be helpful in your journey to know more about what God wants for our lives and how we can defeat the sin of racism.
Some helpful suggestions:
- Read from different translations
- As you encounter the “familiar”, look for the “new.”
- Remember that we interpret through our experiences.
- Read, study and discuss with others as well as by yourself.
