Mary, Mary Quite Contrary 4th Edition

One of the most profound changes that has come over our society in the last century is married women going out to work. This trend was given a considerable boost by the need to recruit female workers in the factories during WW2. Many other factors have contributed since then. They range from labour saving devices in the home to the unpredictable nature of modem marriage. Things have now progressed to the point where women are taking over the professions including the ordained ministry. This short paperback is written in a vigorous, forthright English style, to the point of being unconventional. However it is clear and read able. Mr Clarke argues that church elder-ship should be male. He states the familiar arguments from Scripture and he also quotes many passages from the Bible which speak of male leadership. The book is one long appeal to Holy Writ as being the final word in matters related. He has no patience with those who argue that we must defer to modern opinion: "When men find themselves looking over their shoulders wondering what will this person or that person think of me if I do not do or say the approved thing then that is where Satan has got you. If you find your self not doing things which you know are right before God and proper because you feel others may disapprove of you, then that is Satan ensnaring you so that you will be ineffectual in your work for God'. We are told to resist the Devil and he will flee from you. (Page 76). Much of the book is occupied with an exchange of letters between the author and the elders of Mr Clarke's church who have decided to appoint women elders. He then enters into correspondence with the head of a Bible College who comes to Mr Clarke's church as a visiting preacher. These vigorous debates enable Mr Clarke to present his arguments in an interesting context. We recommend the book. Dr Napier Malcolm, editor of the British Church News Paper.