An appraisal of the role of women in the birth and growth of the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA), Nigeria

Abstract

The role of women in the church is amazing and laudable. Since the inception of the church, women have been active protagonists in the narrative of the church. Their roles cover several aspects of church growth. They have been the pacesetters in terms of demography, evangelistic programs, monetary contributions, and the establishment of developmental projects. Such is evident in the birth of the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) in Nigeria. The growth of ECWA is dependent on the enormous contributions made by women. Despite the fascinating contributions of women, they are still being marginalized in terms of ordination and respective leadership structures at the local, regional, and national levels. Their leadership is limited to women’s group, children's church, and other elementary responsibilities. They serve as subordinates to men’s leadership. A descriptive approach is adopted as the basic methodology for this study. Historical records, diaries, archival materials, and calendars were accessed to bring the narrative of women’s significant roles in ECWA to light. Womanistic theory was also explored as a way of unveiling African women's submission regarding the treatment they receive from their male counterparts and how to properly sustain their humanistic status. The study recommended that women should be allowed to engage in every stratum of the church as they continue to contribute to the growth of ECWA in Nigeria.