In her honest and touching memoir, Lady Father, Rev. Susan B. Bowman recalls difficulties and prejudices she had to overcome before being ordained. She was the first woman to become a priest in the Episcopal Diocese of Southern Virginia. Her account is an inspiration for all those persons, and especially women, who need the motivation to do something unusual but legitimate. Rev. Bowman’s story begins in the 1970s. She remembers her experiences with prelates, including the bishop who gave her the chance to follow her path, and later with her parishioners, who did not always trust her. As she points out, the ordination process is now different, but the debate about whether women should be ordained as priests is still an important topic of discussion.
Lady Father is a book that offers many reasons to reflect and, at the same time, it is an engaging read. As the debate on ordination is still a delicate topic, Rev. Bowman’s remarks are praiseworthy both for their insight and grace. There were many ways in which she could tell her story, but she chose the gentlest. She also knows how to present her experiences without being dull. Rev. Bowman’s courage and determination are evident from these pages as much as the personalities of the people she met on her journey. One thing I like is that Rev. Bowman does not focus only on unhappy events and difficulties, but she also recalls some moments of relief. In this way, the reading becomes easier and more realistic. No one’s life is only black and white and, acknowledging this, Rev. Bowman gives a sincere account. I am sure that everyone can learn something valuable from Lady Father.
[Glenmont, NY]: The Rev. Susan B. Bowman, retired Episcopal priest and published author today announced the re-release of her memoir, “Lady Father.” It is a compelling story of her journey that carried her, as an ordained priest, into the traditionally all-male priesthood. Its honest portrayal of workplace discrimination will provide an inside look at the history of the ordination of women in the Episcopal Church of the 1980’s and 1900’s as well as the perseverance and courage it took to find peace and joy in a vocation once reserved for males.
“Susan, I may not be able to ordain you, but I will not stand in your way,” said the Rt. Rev. C. Charles Vache’, 7th Bishop of the Diocese of Southern Virginia when Susan presented herself for admission into the ordination process. “Susan's voice is authentic and has the Southern charm of tea on the porch in the evening. Her story is poignant and a true testimony to life's great design,” said one reader in a book review.
For readers who enjoy a good read, “Lady Father” is:
· A compelling story of what it means to follow a call
· A narrative that is filled with real life, its angst and its humor
· A good read for anyone who enjoys walking the author’s journey
“Lady Father” will be available starting September 20, at $14.95 on Amazon and other booksellers. For more information on “Lady Father,” visit her Author Page at https://www.amazon.com/Susan-Bowman/e/B0054T8UFO/ref=ntt_dp_epwbk_0.
About the Rev. Susan B. Bowman: Ordained in 1986, Susan served as Chaplain of Jackson-Field Home for Girls in Jarratt, Va., Priest-in-Charge of All Saints’ Episcopal Church in South Hill, Va., Rector of St. Michael’s Episcopal Church in Colonie, NY, Priest-in-Charge of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Hoosick Falls, NY, and Pastor of Jermain United Methodist Church in White Creek, NY. She is now retired and living in upstate New York.
