In the quiet, verdant hills of Limuru, something transformative is taking place. St. Julian’s Anglican Retreat Centre has been turned into a vibrant hub of intellect, spirit, and sisterhood as it hosts the joint Episcopal Divinity School (EDS) and St. Paul’s University (SPU) Women’s Conference.
This isn't just a meeting of minds; it is a movement. By bringing together a global tapestry of theologians, clergy, and scholars, the conference is actively rewriting the narrative of women’s leadership within the church and the academy.
A Global Community of Practice
The atmosphere at St. Julian’s is one of intentionality. Participants from diverse contexts are engaging in a "theology of encounter," where shared worship and plenary sessions serve as the foundation for deep, critical inquiry.
Key themes weaving through the week include:
- Vocation & Calling: Navigating the path of leadership in contemporary ecclesial spaces.
- Power & Gender: Critically examining the structures that shape—and sometimes hinder—women's ministry.
- Decolonial Visions: Crafting theological frameworks that honor local contexts while speaking to a global audience.
Mentorship at the Heart
At the core of this gathering is a robust mentorship framework designed to bridge the gap between seasoned wisdom and emerging passion. The conference is anchored by Ag. Vice-Chancellor, Professor Esther Mombo, whose role as lead mentor reflects SPU’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence and transformative leadership.
Joining her are two titans of theological thought:
- Prof. Jenny Te Paa-Daniel
- Prof. Kwok Pui-lan
Their presence has been a catalyst for depth. Rather than remaining strictly behind a lectern, these mentors have immersed themselves in "dialogical spaces"—nurturing emerging scholars, challenging old paradigms, and encouraging every woman present to articulate her own contextual and feminist theological vision.
High-Level Support and Vision
The significance of this gathering was further highlighted by the presence of the University Council Chair, His Grace The Most Rev. Dr. Jackson Ole Sapit. His attendance underscores the institutional support for centering women’s voices at the highest levels of the church and academia.
"This is where the future of the church is being imagined. It’s in the small-group conversations and the shared prayers where feminist and decolonial visions truly take root."
Looking Forward
As the conference continues to unfold, the impact is already being felt. Participants are leaving sessions not just with notes, but with a renewed sense of purpose and a global network of support. The collaboration between EDS and SPU serves as a powerful reminder that when women lead, they create spaces where the entire community can flourish.
