Today we are talking to Sister Sandra Makowski, author of “The Forgotten Women of the Bible: Naming and Proclaiming the Forgotten Women in Scripture and Church Law”.
What inspired you to write The Forgotten Women of the Bible, and how did your background influence your approach to discussing these often-overlooked women in Scripture and Church Law?
I believe my inspiration for writing this book stemmed from my own experiences as a woman in the Church—repeatedly being treated as second-class and inferior. It was almost assumed that women made the coffee, while men made the decisions.
There was also a time when Canon Law restricted women from obtaining a Canon Law degree. Canon Law, which comes from the Greek word kanon meaning “measuring rod,” refers to church or ecclesiastical law governing all Catholic faithful, both clergy and laity. In 1959, Pope John XXIII called for a revision of the Code of Canon Law, which had become outdated in just 40 years. Before implementing these changes, he convened the Second Vatican Council. It took another 20 years and three additional Popes to finalize and enact the 1983 Code of Canon Law. Before this new code, women were not even permitted to enroll in the degree program.
When I pursued my degree, it was only the third year women were allowed in the program, thanks to this new law. This shift also allowed women to take on church positions that had previously been exclusive to clerics. However, this transition wasn’t easy; many clerics were not entirely comfortable turning to a woman for answers on canonical matters.
I earned my Canon Law degree in 1989 and served in two different dioceses. In one, after three years in the tribunal, I was appointed Chancellor by the newly-appointed Bishop. I received no support or encouragement from my previous supervisors. One priest even told me that only clerics could serve in my new position, predicting that the Bishop would soon realize his mistake in appointing me. He believed that my work would be deemed 'invalid,' thus creating more work for him.
On my first day as Chancellor, a priest recently promoted to Monsignor marched into my office without a greeting. He called my name sharply and said, “I just came from the bathroom, and the plumbing isn’t working. I left my ‘belongings’ in toilet number two. Take care of it.” Then he walked out. I sat there in disbelief, wondering, Why me? It suddenly dawned on me—perhaps this was a metaphor for my new role, one where I would spend significant time “cleaning up” after others, particularly the messes left behind by some clergy.
These experiences pushed me to delve deeper into the stories of women in Scripture. I discovered their strength, courage, and resilience. I gained confidence as a woman in the Church, especially after reading Galatians 3:28: “There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” This passage gave me the determination to continue my journey.
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What do you hope readers will gain from learning about these women?
I hope that readers, especially women, will take to heart the following lessons:
Do not let the institutional Church measure your worth; Jesus has already done that.
Embrace a diverse understanding of God. Our God is not limited to a single image or metaphor. God is Father, but also Mother; God is He and She, but also beyond these concepts—God is our Helper, Comforter, Rock, and Fountain of Life.
Let’s honor the women in the Scriptures who were brave, steadfast, truthful, and fearless. They are role models for us today, showing us how to stand firm and embrace our calling.
Don’t accept being treated as an ‘afterthought’—you are part of the original plan.
Reject cynicism. Instead, embrace forgiveness, kindness, goodness, and truth.
Remember, just because the Church says ‘no’ doesn’t mean you can’t say ‘yes.’ The world needs your bravery. Follow where Jesus leads, even if the path is difficult.
Women were often left out or omitted from lectionary readings, but that doesn’t mean they weren’t present. They were there, and we need to recognize and celebrate their contributions.
Can you share an example of a biblical woman featured in your book whose story profoundly moved you and why?
It’s challenging to choose just one, as every woman in Scripture left a profound impact on me. However, the nameless woman at the well (John 4:1-42) stands out in my memory. Jesus spoke to her at length, discussing her many “husbands.” But in Greek, the word for “husbands” is baal, which also means gods. In context, it’s likely that Jesus was addressing her belief in seven gods, a significant point of contention between Samaritans and Jews.
This encounter is remarkable because it’s the longest recorded theological conversation Jesus had in the Scriptures, and it was with a non-Jewish woman. Despite being unnamed, she engaged in a profound theological dialogue, showing initiative and stepping into a public, male-dominated space without waiting for permission. Her story inspires us to freely and openly share our faith.
What were some challenges you encountered while researching and writing this book?
One significant challenge was when a women’s book club at a parish invited me to speak about The Forgotten Women of the Bible. However, the Pastor prohibited my visit, claiming the book was filled with heresy. Despite this, when the Pastor traveled abroad, the group invited me anyway, and we had a meaningful discussion on various books, including mine.
In what ways do you believe this book can contribute to current discussions within religious communities?
This book underscores the importance of women gathering to share and celebrate the unique strengths and gifts God has given us. It highlights the value of women, even in a Church where positions of power are often reserved for men.
Are there any specific discoveries or insights during your research that surprised you?
A key insight was the significant role women played in the early Church—as deaconesses, close followers of Jesus, and true disciples. It was a reaffirmation of their crucial presence and influence.
How do you envision the role of women evolving in the Church?
If Catholic seminaries begin educating young men in the early traditions of the Church, there may be hope for a future where women’s roles are both appreciated and expanded, much like how Jesus valued the women in His life.
About the Author
Sister Sandra Makowski, SSMN, JCL holds a Master's Degree in religious studies as well as a licentiate in canon law. Along with the knowledge gained from her studies, she writes from her first-hand experience as a woman working in the Catholic Church for forty -seven years as teacher, canonist, judge and Chancellor for the Diocese of Charleston, SC.
Media Contact
Marl Noble Book Review, Social(s) @marlnobleline, 1-925-398-3461,
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