En español. How do we dismantle patriarchal norms in our churches and communities? MC USA’s latest “Learn, Pray, Join” initiative – Undoing Patriarchy – invites congregations and individuals to explore this crucial question through learning, prayer, and action. Running through mid-May, this campaign equips MC USA members with the tools needed to work toward a more equitable church and society where all people are treated with dignity and respect, regardless of gender.
“Undoing patriarchy is about reclaiming the radical inclusivity we are called to live out as Christians. As we work to undo systems of exclusion we are living into our faith more fully as followers of Jesus,” said Lorraine Stutzman Amstutz, MC USA denominational minister for Peace and Justice.
“Learn, Pray, Join: Undoing Patriarchy” sets the stage for MC USA’s Women’s Summit, a powerful, one-day event on July 8, just before the Follow Jesus ’25 national convention in Greensboro, North Carolina. The initiative is rooted in scripture and draws from “Laboring Toward Wholeness: A Training on Dismantling Patriarchy,” a curriculum developed by MC USA’s Women in Leadership ministry. This resource, first published in 2021, examines the history and impact of systemic patriarchy while challenging participants to respond with a Christ-centered, intersectional approach.
What to expect: Throughout this initiative, MC USA will offer thought-provoking blogs, compelling resources, and engaging webinars to help participants reflect on gender roles in the church and beyond. Expect deep discussions that will transform not only personal perspectives but also relationships, families and faith communities.
Highlights:
Webinar: April 24 | 2 p.m. ET / 11 a.m. PT – Get an exclusive sneak peek into the Women’s Summit! Join Lorraine Stutzman Amstutz, MC USA’s denominational minister for peace and justice, along with Sarah Bixler and Joanne Gallardo, as they explore the power of storytelling, listening, and shared experiences in a panel discussion on “Beholding.” Register here: https://MCUSA.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_KAV8w6Z_RXiStALDLGiznw- Webinar Recording: “Women in Leadership: Envisioning the Women’s Summit” – MC USA’s Women in Leadership steering committee discussed the evolution of women’s leadership in the Mennonite church, the need to empower women to live out their callings amid patriarchal systems, and the importance of creating intentional, intergenerational spaces to foster collective women. View it in English or Spanish.
- Blogs from women leaders across the church, featuring voices such as Abby Endashaw, Ana Alicia Hinojosa and Cynthea Millsaps.
- A prayer for women by Karla Stoltzfus Detweiler.
- Opportunities for deeper engagement through the Women’s Summit and the Women in Leadership ministry.
Stay connected and engage: Want to be part of the conversation? Visit the “Learn, Pray, Join: Undoing Patriarchy” webpage for a full list of resources. Subscribe to PeaceMail, MC USA’s weekly email newsletter, and follow MC USA on social media — Facebook, Instagram, Bluesky and YouTube — for ongoing updates.
MC USA’s “Learn, Pray, Join” initiatives create space for the church to unite around important issues, deepen our collective understanding and take meaningful action. Join us as we seek transformation—together.
Mennonite Church USA is an Anabaptist Christian denomination, founded in 2002 by the merger of the Mennonite Church and the General Conference Mennonite Church. Members of this historic peace church seek to follow Jesus by rejecting violence and resisting injustice. MC USA’s Renewed Commitments state the following shared commitments among its diverse body of believers: to follow Jesus, witness to God’s peace and experience the transformation of the Holy Spirit. Mennoniteusa.org