Self and Soul: A Woman's Guide to Enhancing Self-Esteem Though Spirituality

Wilcox, an ordained United Methodist minister, has written a very useful guide for women suffering from low self-esteem, which she says is often caused by a constant drumbeat of teachings that, she says, are oppressive and are inherent in Christian religious tradition. Wilcox challenges religious teachings that assert that women have less value to society and the church than men by showing that these teachings are seldom grounded in the original languages of the Bible. She contends that women played significant roles as missionaries, clergy and even ordained bishops in the early Christian communities. Wilcox uses what she calls the ""wisdom of spirituality"" to counter what she sees as the effects of traditional Christian teachings on women's self-esteem. Wilcox's book lists many practical steps women can take to rebuild their spirituality, and each chapter concludes with workshop-like activities. (Nov.)