Consecrated Womanhood / A Sermon Preached in the First Congregational Church, Portland, Oregon

The sermon contends that scripture consistently recognizes women’s dignity and capacities beyond purely domestic roles, presenting biblical examples of women as leaders, judges, poets, and moral guides. It rejects conservative appeals to scripture that justify denying women political or religious responsibilities and contrasts the Bible’s portrayals with narrower depictions in classical and dramatic literature. The preacher affirms both public service and domestic virtue, arguing that kindness, charity, and practical competence belong to true womanhood and that women should share in sacred offices and civic duties. The discourse blends scriptural exegesis, historical comparison, and moral exhortation to advocate fuller recognition of women’s spiritual and social authority.