What's the big deal about women bishops?

[MrsThierryHenry]

Forgive me if this discussion's already been round the houses on MN, but I've been wondering about this for quite some time now.

Why is it that a woman can be a vicar but if she becomes a bishop it creates such a hoo-ha for some folk in the Church? I'm not even asking about whether it's deemed appropriate for women to be in leadership (as far as I'm concerned this shouldn't even be an issue worth discussing since men and women are equals).

But the bishop thing - surely it should be all or nothing? I.e if you can get onto the first rung on the ladder they should surely let you all the way up?

The status of women within the church massively puts me off. That and the fact that I don't believe in God! Sorry, i should go now, shouldn't I?

I am not supressed within my church, I see not problems with non believers asking questions if they are truely seeking answers.

The status of women in an organised religion is surely the same as in any organisation.

The Bible, however, is freely available and equally open to everyone.

Are there any religions wher men and women are truly equal????

Yes, but I don't have to sign up to any organisation and listen to it's representatives preach to me of a Sunday...do I?

Ive not 'signed up' to any organisation, I have a faith in God.

But you choose to worship that God through an organised religion, of which you are a member.

I repeat my question - name me one religion where men and women are equal??????

Anyone???

Yes I do, but no one within the church tells me what to do I follow the teaching of the bible/God.

Paganism, Silk Cut?

SCM- Just because I dont believe that women and men have the same roles within Christianity doesnt mean we are not equal, we just have different roles.

A mainstream religion???

Thanks for the suggestion though- thought I was invisible (somewhat like women in upper eschalons (sp?)of churches????)

Lizzie - could you explain more? I am very interested in your views

Are you female?

But every church interprets the bible and practices Christianity differently, so the church does in fact guide you at the very least, if not tell you, how to pratice your faith...doesn't it? @Lizzie

Otherwise what is the point of it?

I find religion all a bit confusing and nonsensical to be honest!

I can see you@Silkcut!

I went to church a few weeks ago for the first time in ages and what struck me as I sat listening to a cringeworthy story about 'The Dark Knight and the love of God' was a) the vicar clearly hadn't seen the film and b) why was anyone there letting some half wit preach to them anyway? No wonder the traditional churches struggle to get a congregation.

PS
I am quite dumbfounded that women think only men can talk with authority on the bible.

I should say 'some' women

My husband is a Methodist and I was not aware of this - am off to talk to him

Try going to a Catholic church in my area!@climbanymountain. They're absolutely packed. Nothing to do with the fact that all the good state schools round here are Catholic, of course . No, no, no. Everyone comes especially to hear the scintillating sermons from the doddery, virtually indecipherable and oh yes, startingly dim witted oul' priest. Of course they do.

Yes I am. I believe that God created man first for a reason, that he created him perfect in every way, but something was missing and that was a mate/companion. I dont mean a slave nor someone just to be there. But an equal to share life with. So God created women. Women have a responablilty and a natural instict to nuture and love, men dont have this in the same way women do. I believe that men have a responability to provide for there family, be that in terms of money/food and in spritual guidance (ie preaching)

MrsMattie- I believe and follow what the bible says, I then found a church which agreed with my view point, not the other way around. I left the baptist church because I dont believe in misters. The point of church is so that chirstians gather and worship God.

Well, that's where we depart on our beliefs, I guess@Lizzie. I don't believe that men have any more natural ability or right to preach / teach / guide than women do.

Oh well, as you bring up creationism then I must say that I am very sorry but I don't believe that
Do you REALLY believe that all this was created in 6 days???

I have spoken to my dh and you are indeed right cat64 - methodists do indeed treat men and women the same - as in they can all get to the same level in the church

Do you base this on the bible or just your own thoughts, all my belief are based on what the bible has to say. I guess thats why I call myself a christian and you dont...This discussion is interesting but my faith is not depenant on what womens roles in the church are they are dependant on Jesus dying on the cross for my sins.

lizzie - who was your question directed at?

I think lots of people call themselves Christian and don't believe in creationism. Most can see it for what it is - an allegory.