Drawing upon years of ethnographic research and robust literature review, this lecture explores the complex dynamics surrounding African women in World Christianity, focusing on their spiritual power, formation, agency, and diverse leadership roles within African churches. Similarly, it seeks to deconstruct women’s religious lives in World Christianity by centering the voices, stories, narratives, and lived experiences in African Christianity.  In this lecture, Dr. Parsitau will argue that while African women have long played a pivotal role in shaping Christian communities, their contributions are often underrepresented, written out of history, or silenced by patriarchal structures.  The lecture therefore examines how African women assert their spiritual authority, navigate systemic barriers, and claim spiritual leadership in both traditional and emerging Christian spaces.  By amplifying their stories, lived experiences, and theological formation and leadership, the lecture seeks to highlight the transformative impact of African women on the global and African Christian landscape.

Dr. Damaris Parsitau (PH. D) is an Associate Professor and the Director of the Nagel Institute at Calvin University. She is also the President of the African Association for the Study of Religion (AASR).  She was the immediate past country Director of the British Institute in Eastern Africa.  Dr. Parsitau is an academic leader and researcher with expertise in World/African Christianity and its interactions with women and youth spirituality.  Dr. Parsitau has also been instrumental in leading projects that focus on the social impact of Christianity in Africa as well as the spiritual formation and leadership development of African women.  Her work also includes amplifying the voices of African women in World Christianity through storytelling and digital content.  An advocate for integrating faith and learning, she plays a key role in shaping theological and public life curricula and mentoring the next generation of African leaders.