Power of Women

WOMEN AND THE PRIESTHOOD: What One Mormon Woman Believes

By: Sheri Dew                          5 Stars

Personally, I have never been one of those who have wondered why women do not hold the priesthood. I feel there are two genders for a reason. Just like within our communities we aren’t expected to do everything. Instead, we are expected to do our best with our unique abilities and in turn work together so everyone’s combined talents can progress the kingdom of our Father. Men and women too have unique strengths and weaknesses. When brought together they can form an incredible power that can destroy the grasp of evil and ultimately have the privilege of exaltation.

Sheri Dew goes above and beyond what I expected to obtain by reading this book. I believe it was back in 2012 when I was able to attend a Time Out for Women event in Salt Lake City. At that time Sheri chose the direction of her presentation to focus on the strength of women. Little did I know that within a few short months I would hear about a growing movement for women to receive the priesthood within the LDS religion.

Sheri was inspired to focus her comments on such a subject before it hit the media in full force. If I had known how important that presentation would be, I would have taken better notes. Fortunately, within Women and the Priesthood she covered much of the same material and much more in an effort to help women understand their divine calling within life.

Of course the well-known roll of LDS women is covered, that of being a wife and a mother. Yet, Sheri is single and thus, childless. It is always inspiring to hear how she handles this challenge within a community so focused on that of being a mother. Sheri eloquently describes that while this is one of the most important roles of women, there are additional worthy missions for everyone to accomplish within the Plan of Salvation.

Through the book we learn that there is a distinct difference between priesthood keys, priesthood authority and priesthood power. While women do not hold the priesthood keys, we are still entitled to benefit from priesthood authority and priesthood power. We are to use that form of the priesthood to increase our Father’s kingdom and obtain those blessings that are unique to our gender.

The most profound moment I felt within this book based around the idea that some people believe women don’t receive revelation. I can’t even imagine going one day without hoping and expecting to receive some sort of inspiration to guide my life. It is unfathomable that others, of both genders, believe that only men can obtain their own direction. I am so glad that Sheri set out to destroy that myth.

I strongly encourage everyone to read this book, no matter if you believe that women and men are equal or unequal within the LDS religion. I believe that everyone will learn a little something and feel an increased power in the unique abilities we all carry.