The Case of Luke 2:36-39 and the Challenges of Women Priesthood in Methodist Church Nigeria

Abstract

The issue of women's priesthood has been a challenge to Christendom in general and the Methodist Church in Nigeria in particular. Little attention has been given to the efforts and contributions of women ministers. Likewise, they have been denied many of their priestly functions as co-workers in the service of God in terms of conducting the Eucharist, baptism, and solemnisation of marriage. The study is empirically based on the findings from 960 respondents out of 1200 questionnaires administered. Findings revealed that Methodist Church Nigeria had ordained more than 50 full-time female ministers promoted to the post of Presbyters. However, despite this, there exists a numerical disparity between male and female priests, including gender differences and disparity in functions that female priests could perform. Using Luke 2:36–39 as the theoretical basis for analysis, the study suggests the need for the Methodist Church (Nigeria) to allow female ministers to use their God-given talents without any discrimination or undue hindrances to promote the gospel's spread.