Book Nook - In the Beginning Were the Women

 

Chalice Press is proud to announce the forthcoming release of Claire K. McKeever-Burgett’s transformative new book, In the Beginning Were the Women: Matriarchs, Mystics, Wise Women, and Warriors in the Hebrew Bible. For too long, the sacred roles of women in faith have led to confusion because their stories have historically only been told by men. Readers who hunger for a deeper, more accurate understanding of their spiritual lineage will find powerful reclamation in this inspiring text. McKeever-Burgett, an author, theologian, and spiritual leader, uses feminist theological interpretation to illuminate the complex, layered, and multidimensional lives of biblical women—many of whom are unnamed and underrepresented in scriptures. The book is structured around four powerful archetypes—matriarchs, mystics, wise women, and warriors—unearthing figures such as Hagar, Deborah, Queen Vashti, and Jael. In the Beginning Were the Women offers essential spiritual resources for anyone seeking to integrate their faith and practice, including preachers, teachers, parents, and liturgists. Each chapter provides a detailed backstory, a feminist rendering of scripture, reflection questions, and a liturgy for personal or communal use. By embracing these narratives, readers will gain a deeper vision of their faith history and find connection to a powerful lineage of love. The ultimate prayer is that these stories continue to be told and heard and told and heard, again and again, so that every reader knows from whom we come and to whom we belong, which is always and forever Love. Claire K. McKeever-Burgett is an author, creative contemplative, and spiritual leader who has dedicated her life to bridging spirituality and social justice. With a background in English and Professional Writing from Baylor University and a Master of Divinity from Vanderbilt Divinity School, she has served as a clergy, led congregations, and facilitated transformative writing, movement, and liturgical practices centered on healing and embodiment. A mother, certified birth and postpartum doula, and a yoga, dance, and martial arts instructor, Claire lives with her family in Nashville, Tennessee. She writes regularly on Substack: Blessed Are the Women (and other Good News for all of us). To learn more about In the Beginning Were the Women and how to become a part of this transformative movement, visit ChalicePress.com.

About Chalice Press

Chalice Press is an imprint of Chalice Media Group, which works to grow and equip a community that is vibrant and energizing, a worldwide force for justice, peace, inclusion, and multi-faith cooperation.