INTRODUCTION TO
WOMEN, MUSIC, AND MISSION
by Joyce D. Sohl
Women are involved in God’s mission in the world. Women are motivated to assist in making the world a better place. Women believe that God is calling them to do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God. Women believe that God’s mission is enabled by God’s song.
             Hymns invite women to be involved in God’s mission. Hymns can clearly state a justice issue or lament brokenness and despair. Hymns can challenge us to become involved in working for justice, to advocate for the oppressed, to love, and to move beyond the status quo in our communities, churches, and nation. Hymns can motivate, educate, affirm and expand our faith, and help form a supportive community ready to follow the Holy Spirit in mission.
 

Almost two thousand years have gone since Jesus went away,
and still the task remains undone he left with us that day.
“Go ye,” said he, “to all the world, proclaim the joyful sound,
and let love’s banner be unfurled to earth’s remotest bound.”

Lelia N. Morris, 1914
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JUSTICE FOR CHILDREN
Jesus’ message of welcome for children is reflected in new hymns. Other songs challenge adults to provide sustenance, safety and learning to all the world’s children.
PEACE HYMNS
Peace as a theme in Christian theology, with Jesus as Prince of Peace and peacemakers seen as blessed, is reflected in an emerging body of music.
SONGS OF WOMEN’S RIGHTS
Women of faith have played significant roles in changing U.S. society. These women used song to rally their courage and to share their message. They sang of freedom and equality as they marched.

Related Links
Women in Music National Network
www.womeninmusic.com

Global Praise