K Karpen: "To Be Honest" (Sermon for May 10, 2026)

"Some of the people then joined Paul and became believers, including... a woman named Damaris." - Acts 17:34

Nearly every chapter in the Acts of the Apostles speaks of women disciples and apostles, including this mention of Damaris, who joins Paul as he departs from the city of Athens. By my count, this includes more than a dozen individual women who are lifted up and named, plus another dozen references to groups of women. How did a movement so filled with faithful women become so quickly dominated by men?

This Sunday we'll celebrate 'Mothers and Others Day', a chance to lift up, remember, and honor the women who have played a crucial role in the life of St Paul & St Andrew, and/or a central role in your life. We don't know anything much about Damaris, but I can think of so many 'mothers of the church' who have given birth and life to my faith during my time here. And I am very grateful.

See you Sunday,

K