Before the Light

Latvia is almost the only country in the world where the official Lutheran Church has banned the ordination of women, despite the fact that for twenty years prior to this, women had successfully served as pastors. While some women clergy, unable to come to terms with this, emigrate to make a full life elsewhere in the world, others occupy secondary positions in the Latvian church hierarchy, working as preachers and acting pastors.

However, several women theologians are no longer willing to stand aside and accept the second-class role they have been given. With a confidence that alternates with doubt, with an obedience that encourages rebellion, Rudīte, Dace and Agrita are paving the way for a future in which women will also have a place at the altar.