Thesis (M.A.)--Columbia Biblical Seminary and Graduate School of Missions, Columbia, S.C., 1995. / Abstract. Includes bibliographical references (leaves 110-119).

Thesis (M.A.)--Columbia Biblical Seminary and Graduate School of Missions, Columbia, S.C., 1995. / Abstract. Includes bibliographical references (leaves 110-119).

Thesis (M.A.)--Columbia Biblical Seminary and Graduate School of Missions, Columbia, S.C., 1995. / Abstract. Includes bibliographical references (leaves 110-119).

The diploma thesis: "Purity and Danger: The Perspective of Compliance with Ritual Purity in the Contemporary Roma House" deals with the boundary definitions of Roma groups and identities. This examination takes place via the narration of the Roma themselves and by observing the ritual practices in Roma households. The main tool that the Roma use in determining their group boundaries is the concept of cleanliness and impurity. It appears both in their narratives and in their ritual practice. This thesis describes the definition of a specific group of Roma women against many other groups of Roma and against the majority society. By doing so, we can examine their values, and the importance of the concept of purity in their lives and at the same time where their concept of purity comes from and how they work with it every day. Furthermore, it describes the environment, habits and clothes worn by women and their children, their hobbies and the way of their everyday life. Another important topic emerging at work is what roles men and women have in their group, and how the duties, or the spaces associated with their daily lives, are shared between the sexes. In conclusion, the thesis also answers the questions of what role the concept of purity plays in the life of particular studied families, how this...

Examining the role of women in the ministry of the Syrian Orthodox Church is not a new endeavor; however, it remains a complex one. This paper aims to delve into the roles assigned to women in church ministry according to canon law, exploring the reasons behind the failure of their implementation, and identifying the opportunities available for women in church ministry today. The creation narratives in the Book of Genesis 1:27 underscore the equality of both male and female, as they are created in the image of God. Biblical texts emphasize the invaluable role of women as supportive partners within the context of the church community (Romans:16:1-5). They are depicted as pillars of strength, offering their wisdom, compassion and dedication to nurturing the spiritual growth of others. This role as a helper (Genesis 2:20) is not one of subservience but rather of partnership and collaboration where both men and women work together harmoniously to fulfill the mission of the church and spread love and understanding.  Through this study, I have endeavored to elucidate the integral role of women in church ministry. The church must recognize and harness the considerable expertise that women possess across various fields of religious life. By doing so, their spiritual journey is enriched, enabling them to align more closely with the image of God and pursue their goals with greater specificity and purpose. This exploration also discusses into the establishment of the office of deaconess and highlights the myriad opportunities available for women in the ministry of the Syrian Orthodox Church today. By embracing and empowering women within the church, we uphold the values of equality and inclusivity and enrich our community’s spiritual fabric.