This volume completes a three-part series encompassing the women of the Bible -- the other two being WomanWisdom, also on women of the Old Testament, and WomanWord on women of the New Testament. Comprises legendary women, mothers, daughters and memorable women. Each section gives a scripture reference. a brief biography, a note on context, a reading and a psalm written on a theme related to the particular woman being treated. Written by a Medical Mission Sister who teaches liturgy at Hartford Seminary in Connecticut, the notes on history and context are quite interesting.

Women of the Hebrew Scriptures and the Apocrypha each claim a chapter of celebration. Meinrad Craighead introduces each chapter with a bold, dramatic illustration. What follows is the historical or sociological setting of the woman's life. Next comes the biblical text printed in short sense lines-another key feature. The chapter concludes with points for reflection, a prayer, and a newly composed psalm. These books developed within long, contemplative gestation and matured within life experiences. With WomariWord for New Testament writings, we are blessed with a trilogy of feminist leadership for prayer.

This third volume completes the series by Miriam Therese winter encompassing all the women in the Bible. She has unearthed them all, and for each there is her biography, her context (in the story), the Lectionary reading, points for reflection, an appropriate psalm, and a prayer. The book begins with a chronology from Eve to the Maccabean Period and ends w1th indexes to a seasonal lectionary, to the psalms and the women in all three volumes. This book belongs on the shelf -- along with the preceding volumes - of every woman of faith.

The patriarchal structure and bias of most Christian communities has made it hard for women to find inspirational models for the spiritual life. In Woman-Witness: A Feminist Lectionary and Psalter: Women of the Hebrew Scriptures: Part Two, Miriam Therese Winter, professor of Liturgy, Worship and Spirituality at Hartford Seminary, has put together 50 services for Old Testament figures such as Deborah, Ruth. Esther, Judith, the Temple Singers, and many others. The readings, psalms, and prayers in these creative and thought-provoking liturgies put the accent on the action and presence of God in women’s lives. WomenWitness nicely supplements Winter`s previous books, WomenWord on women in the New Testament and WornenWisdom the first volume on women in the Hebrew scriptures.