Church of Our Granddaughters

“Nuanced, humane, and above all culturally and theologically literate, this is a wonderful contribution to Christian reflection both within and beyond the Orthodox Church. It is not some indiscriminate plea for Enlightenment ethics to take over from theology, but a fresh, careful sifting and highlighting of the tradition itself, manifestly seeking the integrity and spiritual health of the body of Christ.”


—Rowan Williams, former archbishop of Canterbury





“Carrie Frederick Frost makes a dire claim: the Orthodox Church is already in a state of schism over women. But Frost also knows that God excels in reconciling the estranged. In this brief, beautiful study, Frost courageously names where Orthodox practice has betrayed the gospel, proposes solutions of theological and spiritual integrity, and envisions a church that any woman, of any tradition, would be pleased and proud for her granddaughter to call home.”


—Sarah Hinlicky Wilson, author of Woman, Women, and the Priesthood in the Trinitarian Theology of Elisabeth Behr-Sigel





“A thoughtfully compiled and deeply personal contemplation on the complexity of being a practicing Orthodox Christian woman today. This book is a helpful tool for both men and women navigating their personal and spiritual path within the complexity of orthodoxy with its incredible theology and its distinct cultural heritage bearing a lingering problematic of twenty centuries of patriarchal legacy.”


—Elena Narinskaya, co-editor of Women and Ordination in the Orthodox Church





“Carrie Frederick Frost’s excellent review of the ways Eastern and Oriental Orthodox Churches can move to a revitalized future brings encouragement to all who recognize the resurrection in every living person. Her careful review of customs regarding women is rooted in the gospel teachings of the dignity and value of all. Church of Our Granddaughters is required reading for anyone who hopes the tradition of women deacons can be recovered throughout all Christianity.”


—Phyllis Zagano, Hofstra University





“Carrie Frederick Frost’s work is convicting and compelling, heartbreaking, and heartening. To read it is to hear a prophetic voice, fueled by agape, calling the Orthodox Church to repentance. Blending incisive arguments, historical evidence, and personal experiences, Church of Our Granddaughters invites readers to restore and release the vibrancy of Orthodoxy’s tradition on pastoral care for women and female leadership and ministry. It should be read by every hierarch, priest, deacon, and lay person who cares about Orthodox Christianity’s present—and future.”


—Perry T. Hamalis, North Central College





“Carrie Frederick Frost offers a breath of fresh air in tackling the role of women in the Orthodox Church. She is honest and courageous in confronting both the challenges that still face women, and positive in providing constructive ways forward. Issues of ‘purity,’ equality, and leadership affect every member of the Church regardless of their gender. Frost is balanced and scholarly, but also passionate in her drive to bring about change for future generations.”


—Mary B. Cunningham, University of Nottingham