Devotions from Herstory

Women have often remained hidden in history, including religious history. Yet even nameless women can be honored, and their faith and actions can inspire us even when we don't know exactly who they were. And when we do know the names and biographic details of women who have lived more recently, we can commit ourselves to keeping their memories alive. This book attempts to honor many women who have come before us by connecting their stories across time as a resource for our own devotional lives. Originally intended for the 31 days of Women's History Month in March, these undated entries permit readers to begin these devotions at any time of the year. Each day's devotion features an illustration and brief biographical sketch of the featured woman, a Scripture that connects a biblical woman's story with a more recent "HERstory," as well as a prayer-poem, a question for personal meditation or group conversation, and an idea for action inspired by the women's stories. The biblical women of faith are primarily Hebrew or early Christian women but also include Egyptians and Samaritans. The historic women with whom they are paired include women of many faith traditions, as well as various ethnic and national backgrounds. From the medieval mystic Julian of Norwich to the contemporary Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor, the women herein offer today's readers inspiring models for the life of faith today.