I know not all the readers of my blog care about all the subjects that interest me, but as I continue to write about my reading, I love the ability to reflect back on what I’ve read in the past in the context of when I read it. This review is of a book that probably most readers are not interested in. I read it as I took a much needed break from the demanding duties of motherhood for a days. It was a time of much reflection for me as I realized how much I miss being home with my little ones: but it was also wonderful to be able to sit and read a book without much distraction in the course of a few days!
Women and the Priesthood by Sheri Dew (Deseret Book, 2013) is a simple book containing one woman’s testimony of what the priesthood means in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Although the title seems all encompassing, it is a deeply personal book.
Sister Dew shares her testimony, including words from prophets and apostles and scriptures to share what she believes. I have always enjoyed Sheri Dew’s frank way of putting things, and I think she has a unique perspective to add, given that she is a single middle-aged woman who has served closely with many of the general authorities. How, then does this powerful woman truly feel about the priesthood in her life?
In short, Sister Dew’s thoughts echo mine, although I have not encountered the breadth of quotations and scriptures before to reinforce my thoughts. I loved the personal tone of the book, and I felt that Sister Dew really “gets it.” Her thoughts on the relationship between women and the priesthood in the Church are not going to sway someone’s mind if they have already determined what they believe. But for someone who, like me, would love to be able to put her testimony into words (and always falls short), Sister Dew’s book is the reassuring message I’ve been waiting for. Well done!