When I set out to write Purposeful Prayers, I had a clear vision: to create something that wasn’t just filled with heartfelt prayers but also reflected the diverse voices of women who have played pivotal roles in shaping faith, spirituality, and the Christian journey. Little did I know how challenging that would be.
Women’s voices are often missing or muted from many Christian texts and historical accounts. As I began my research, I noticed that finding quotes, sermons, or even reflections by women who had significantly influenced the faith was far more difficult than expected. This wasn’t because they didn’t exist, but because their contributions had often been overshadowed, their words buried in history, or simply not recorded as often as their male counterparts.
My journey became one of digging deep—through my own book collection of writers I love, articles, and even long-forgotten sermons—to unearth the wisdom of these women. I compiled a mix of modern day and classic writers. I spent countless hours reading and researching, determined to bring their words to light. Why? Because their voices matter.
In many cases, these women were the prayer warriors, the ones who quietly yet powerfully shaped their communities, families, and churches. Their experiences, struggles, and triumphs in faith are just as rich and instructive as any theologian or preacher.
In Purposeful Prayers, I made it a point to ensure that these women’s words were included because their stories and insights deserve to be heard. It was important for me not only to honor them but also to give readers the opportunity to learn from and be inspired by their faith. These women faced their own challenges, overcame adversity, and held onto their faith in the midst of it all—making their voices all the more relevant today.
The reality is that women’s contributions to Christian history are often erased or forgotten. This is why it’s so crucial to record and amplify their words, to preserve their wisdom for future generations, and to remind the world that women have always been integral to the foundation and growth of the faith.
Below, I’ve featured a list of the incredible women whose quotes are included in Purposeful Prayers. I encourage you to research them, learn more about their stories, and discover how their faith shaped their lives. Let’s continue to ensure that their voices are heard, valued, and remembered.
- Julian Of Norwich
- Lara Casey
- Chrystal Evans
- Prathia Hall
- Elizabeth Sherrill
- Vashti Murphy Mckenzie
- Priscilla Shirer
- Hannah Whitall Smith
- Sarah Jakes Roberts
- Katie Cannon
- Frances Ridley Havergal
- Kay Arthur
- Annie Keary
- Elizabeth Rundell Charles
- Michelle Mcclain-Walters
- Joyce Meyer
- Alicia Britt Chole
- Beth Moore
- Marshawn Evans Daniels
- Elisabeth Elliot
- Lysa Terkeurst
- Jarena Lee
- Ruth Chou Simons
- Nona Jones
- Anne Lamott
- Harriet Mcewen Kimball
- Mary Anne Schimmelpenninck
- Cora Jakes Coleman
- Annie Sophie Swetchine
By amplifying these voices, we not only honor their legacy but also create a space for future generations of women to be seen, heard, and celebrated within the faith community.