As we continue our celebration of Women`s History Month, we come together this morning to honor the women who have come before us to recognize their determination, perseverance, dedication and sacrifice.
According to the book of Genesis, as the world came into being, women were created as the pinnacle of creation. Since that time, however, we have struggled for equity and fairness in what has been a man`s world.
The challenges of overturning the status quo can be daunting and yet, we continue the fight to realize a world of equality of opportunity, respect and fairness based on the content of our character, our accomplishments, and our contributions to our communities.
We give thanks for having lived in a time where women are encouraged to succeed and pursue their dreams. But we still reside in a world where men outnumber women significantly in key decision making positions-in legislatures, boardrooms, judicial office and other positions of influence and power. Violence against women continues to plague us in so many corners of the world (including our own).
But we do not give up, and we are inspired by those women who lead the way. We honored several of them on Monday-rocket-scientist, educators, researchers, community leaders from all parts of our Golden State. As former Secretary Hillary Clinton said, "it is past time for women to take their rightful place, side by side with men, in the rooms where the fates of peoples, where their children`s and grandchildren`s fates, are decided."
Holy One of Blessing, we give thanks to the women and men who continue to work toward a just and fair society, the trailblazers and foot soldiers and the everyday people who are committed to the belief that every person, regardless of gender, can pursue their dreams and fulfill their potential. And may we never forget that women hold up half the sky. It is only by rejoicing in that power that we will ever find the promise of justice and equality that we recognize today as part of our celebration of women and their extraordinary contributions to our world. We can make it a more just and peaceful world and we ask that as we pursue our work here today.-AMEN.