Jesus Establishes the Women's Corps

In 29 CE, Jesus made a groundbreaking announcement that astounded both his disciples and the community around him. He declared that he would choose ten devout women to be dedicated to the ministerial work of the kingdom. These women had listened to the teachings given to the young evangelists, but they never imagined that Jesus would commission them to teach the gospel and care for the sick. This proclamation by Jesus was nothing short of an emancipation proclamation, liberating women from spiritual inferiority forever. Men were no longer to view women as lesser beings in the realm of religion and spirituality. While Jesus had previously declared the equality of all as children of God, this formal commissioning of women as religious teachers and allowing them to travel with the group was a radical step. This event had a profound impact on the nation, with both supporters and enemies of Jesus taking notice. The women remained dedicated to their mission, gaining the approval of many, including the apostles who initially embraced this liberation of women's roles. The women's corps grew in strength and expanded their ministry, training an additional fifty women in home visitation and caring for the sick and afflicted.