From commoner to queen, the women in this book embraced the freedom and the power of the Gospel in making their unique contributions to the unfolding of history. Wherever possible, the women here speak for themselves, from their letters, diaries or published works. The true story of women in Christian history inspires, challenges and demonstrates the grace of God producing much fruit throughout time.
Feminine Threads is a must-read for men and women alike, but especially so for young women who need to have a clear view of the contributions that women before them have made to the Christian faith.
-- Carolyn McCulley (Conference Speaker and Author of Radical Womanhood: Feminine Faith in a Feminist World)Well researched and well written, this study of feminine threads in Christian history makes for a tapestry of inspiration and instruction for all who love the Lord and his church - men and women alike.
-- Timothy GeorgeA true historian, Diana Severance brings to life the times of the women she introduces us to with relevant nackground and cultural allusions.
-- The Evangelical Magazine... it is doubtful that there is another volume that so clearly, concisely, and comprehensively describes the contributions of women throughout church history.
-- The Master's Seminary JournalNo-one reading this book can fail to be encouraged by the faith of these ordinary women who, in their own generation, humbly trusted the Word of God and lived to serve the Lord of whom it speaks.
-- Carrie SandomWhat women these Christians have! exclaimed Libanius, the fourth century teacher of rhetoric. His words are amply underscored and vividly illustrated in this deeply researched and highly readable survey of the last 2,000 years - an appraisal that Diana Severance invariably places against the enduring touchstone of Scripture.
-- Richard BewesFrom Blandina and Perpetua all the way to Edith Schaeffer and Joni Eareckson Tada, this book spans the history of the church, showing how godly women have contributed to the Christian faith.
-- Tim ChalliesI highly recommend Feminine Threads by Diana Severance. It is a comprehensive study of a variety of Christian women, slaves to Queens, from New Testament times to the present day. The way in which the author incorporates eyewitness accounts, letters, and diaries are both an encouragement to read as well as convicting. Another aspect of this book, which I found very revealing, is the response of each generation of women to the word of God. This is not a light read, but a book that I think should be in every Christian woman's library.
-- Dr. and Mrs G. K. Bealewith lively prose and scholarly care she has given us an excellent overview of the various ways in which Christian women have sought to live for Christ.
-- Michael A. G. HaykinFascinating book for bible college students and Christian women of all ages.
-- Evangelicals NowI recommend every woman read and study and keep within reach for reference and inspiration!
-- Dorothy K. PattersonWhat a gift to God's people is this remarkable tracing of the rich trail of women used by God to build his church! Severance's comprehensive scope and measured but warm scholarly voice put many of today's more clamoring voices in illuminating perspective. With excellence and careful documentation, Dr. Severance lights up a procession of women who in God's providence helped bring us to this point in history. Reading this book, we not only relish the voices and stories Severance brings to life; we also gain a hugely important understanding of an expansive heritage of women grounded in God's Word and serving God's redemptive purposes throughout human history.
-- Kathleen B. Nielsona record packed with spiritual insights and one that is both timely and significant.
-- Faith Cook