Carter Heyward

Carter Heyward is an American Episcopal priest, feminist theologian, and teacher who has written extensively on issues of social justice, sexuality, and liberation theology. She was one of the first women to be ordained as an Episcopal priest in 1974, as part of the Philadelphia Eleven. Throughout her academic career, Heyward served as a professor of theology at Episcopal Divinity School in Cambridge, Massachusetts, where she influenced generations of students and theologians. Her work focuses on the intersection of feminist theology, liberation theology, and LGBTQ+ issues within Christianity. Her major theological contributions include developing the concept of "mutual relation" and exploring power dynamics in human relationships from a feminist theological perspective. Notable works include "The Redemption of God: A Theology of Mutual Relation" (1982) and "Touching Our Strength: The Erotic as Power and the Love of God" (1989). Heyward's influence extends beyond academia into activism and advocacy for marginalized communities within religious contexts. She has consistently worked to bridge theological scholarship with practical ministry and social justice movements.

Readers appreciate Heyward's theological perspectives challenging traditional church doctrine, particularly around feminist and LGBTQ+ inclusion. Many connect with her personal narrative style and integration of real-world experiences into theological discussions. Praise focuses on: - Clear explanations of complex liberation theology concepts - Honesty about her own spiritual journey - Links between social justice and Christian ethics Common criticisms: - Writing can be academic and dense - Some see her views as too radical/departing from scripture - Repetitive themes across books Ratings: Goodreads averages: - Touching Our Strength: 4.1/5 (43 ratings) - God in the Balance: 3.9/5 (21 ratings) - Our Passion for Justice: 4.3/5 (19 ratings) Amazon reviews are limited, averaging 4-4.5 stars with under 10 reviews per book. Reviews reflect a divide between progressive Christians who embrace her message and traditionalists who disagree with her theological positions.

A Priest Forever: One Woman's Controversial Ordination in the Episcopal Church (1976) Chronicles Heyward's personal journey and the controversy surrounding her ordination as one of the first female Episcopal priests.

Our Passion for Justice: Images of Power, Sexuality, and Liberation (1984) Explores the intersections of theology, sexuality, and social justice from a feminist liberation perspective.

Speaking of Christ: A Lesbian Feminist Voice (1989) Examines Christology through the lens of feminist and lesbian theology.

Touching Our Strength: The Erotic as Power and the Love of God (1989) Analyzes the relationship between spirituality, power, and human sexuality.

When Boundaries Betray Us: Beyond Illusions of What Is Ethical in Therapy and Life (1993) Critiques professional boundaries in therapeutic relationships and explores the ethics of human connection.

Saving Jesus from Those Who Are Right (1999) Challenges traditional interpretations of Jesus and presents alternative theological perspectives.

God in the Balance: Christian Spirituality in Times of Terror (2002) Addresses theological responses to terrorism and violence in the contemporary world.

Keep Your Courage: A Radical Christian Feminist Speaks (2010) Presents autobiographical reflections and theological essays on feminism, justice, and spirituality.

She Flies On: A White Southern Christian Debutante Wakes Up (2017) Autobiographical work detailing Heyward's journey from Southern society to radical theology and social activism.