African Women in Anglican Leadership: Dr. Esther Mombo on Challenges, Progress, & Theological Education

In this episode, Dr. Kwok Pui Lan speaks with Dr. Esther Mombo, a leading theologian from St. Paul’s University in Limuru, Kenya, about women's leadership in the Anglican Church in Africa. Dr. Mombo introduces the "Africa Six," the current six female bishops, highlighting their significance as a testament to both the challenges and transformations in African Anglicanism.

The conversation explores the hurdles women face in accessing theological education and ministry on the continent, the crucial work of the Mothers' Union in community and economic development, and Dr. Mombo's own work in empowering women through theological study. She shares her extensive experience serving on high-level Anglican Commissions, including discussions around human sexuality within the Communion. Dr. Mombo offers a nuanced perspective on the complexities of these debates, emphasizing the need for empathy, understanding, and solidarity over division. She concludes with powerful advice for young women aspiring to be future church leaders, particularly on navigating patriarchal structures and embracing theological empowerment.

This is the second episode of Episcopal Divinity School’s (EDS) series hosted by Distinguished Scholar, Dr. Kwok Pui Lan: Voices from the Anglican Communion.

Interested in learning more about how to live postcolonial Anglicanism? Consider joining EDS this fall for an online course taught by Dr. Kwok and the Rt. Rev. Ian T. Douglas, PhD: Living Postcolonial Anglicanism: Pastoral Perspectives from the Global Church.

 

Credits:

Music Credit: I Love to Tell the Story, Benjamin Grove, keyboard

Podcast produced by Polymnia