Feminism and Leadership in the Pentecostal Movement

Abstract

The modern Pentecostal movement at its inception in the late nineteenth to early twentieth century was blessed with the ministry of women in key leadership roles. This article gives a brief account of the history of some of the women involved at the beginning. It explores the declining trend through the twentieth century and the reasons behind it. The author then compares the current attitudes towards women in leadership held within different parts of the Pentecostal movement in the United Kingdom. Is there a brighter future where women are once again recognized as worthy leaders of Pentecostal churches?