Jimmy Carter Leaves Church Over Treatment of Women

Principessa

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Jimmy Carter Leaves Church Over Treatment of Women

After more than 60 years together, Jimmy Carter has announced himself at odds with the Southern Baptist Church -- and he's decided it's time they go their separate ways. Via Feministing, the former president called the decision "unavoidable" after church leaders prohibited women from being ordained and insisted women be "subservient to their husbands." Said Carter in an essay in The Age:
At its most repugnant, the belief that women must be subjugated to the wishes of men excuses slavery, violence, forced prostitution, genital mutilation and national laws that omit rape as a crime. But it also costs many millions of girls and women control over their own bodies and lives, and continues to deny them fair access to education, health, employment and influence within their own communities.
And, later:
The truth is that male religious leaders have had -- and still have -- an option to interpret holy teachings either to exalt or subjugate women. They have, for their own selfish ends, overwhelmingly chosen the latter. Their continuing choice provides the foundation or justification for much of the pervasive persecution and abuse of women throughout the world.

I thought he had left the Southern Baptist Church in the 70's because of their mistreatment of blacks? :confused: Good for him for finally speaking up for what he believes in and hopefully putting his money where his mouth is. By that I mean, I hope he isn't just not attending church; but that he stops titheing as well. That will make the church take notice.


 

CUBE

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I like him so much. He has shown such growth and wisdom over his life. He really does walk the walk. He really has tried to make the world a better place. Good for him for taking this stand for women. It can olny breed equality for everyone
 

BobLeeSwagger

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He suddenly decided that the church was oppressing women? He hadn't realized it before? Call me skeptical. You'd be hard-pressed to find a religious organization that doesn't discriminate against someone. Either you agree with their dogma, you disagree and attend their services anyway, or you go elsewhere. Most people seem to choose A or B.
 

D_Doewell Dadong

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I have a deep mis trust of organised religion at the best of times. Can't fault anyone who stands up for what they believe in. But after skim reading the article. If he left that particular church in the 70's, why bring it up now? Or is it part of a memoir?