Monica Furlong (1930–2003)

Women Pray: Voices through the Ages, from Many Faiths, Cultures and Traditions by Monica Furlong. Section 5: Devotions and Prayer. This book, suggested to me by Annette King, is a compilation of prayers, poems and prose by women of many faiths. Why do we need a book of prayers by women? It is only in the last few decades that women have been praying aloud in public as more and more denominations grant women worship leader roles, and turn to women for their unique life view, world view, and wisdom. But there are many early religious women whose writings form a rich history that are included here: Hildegard von Bingen (German Benedictine, born 1098), Julian of Norwich (English mystic and theologian, b. 1342), Rabi’a (Muslim saint and Sufi mystic, b. 713), and Mirabai (Hindu mystic, b. 1498) being a few.
More recent women such as the American suffragist Elizabeth Cady Stanton criticized the way the Bible was used to subordinate women. So she and a committee of 26 women wrote their own version, The Woman’s Bible! Females Cecil Frances Alexander (“All Things Bright and Beautiful,” “Once in Royal David’s City.” b. 1818 in Ireland) and Christina Rossetti (“In the Bleak Midwinter,” “Love Came Down at Christmas,” b. 1803, London) have shaped our worship and our inner visual imagery through their hymns. And all along I thought Cecil was a man!
One striking feature of women’s prayers is that they seek a connection with women of the past who were often illiterate, giving voice to those often nameless, voiceless women who came before us. Childbirth, child and family care are themes. Women’s past powerlessness is transformed into power – the power to approach God as one of God’s beloved. A love of the natural world, the dailiness of living, self-discovery, birth and death, and the power of forgiveness are all themes you will find here.
I like that the editor has included women’s voices from a variety of religious traditions. This shows us the commonalities, reflections, dreams and hopes all women share. Ladies, this book is especially for you. Annette and I both hope you enjoy it!… (more)