Unquestionably, both pro-AV and church tech are dominated by males. I’m sure that sociologists would argue that it stems from the fact that as children boys tinker and build while girls gravitate towards more socially centered activities. For whatever the reason, there is no doubt a large gender gap when it comes to pure percentages both in general volunteer numbers and leadership positions in church tech ministries. I propose that this needs to change and that there is a biblical imperative for women serving in church tech. Two passages that specifically focus on the creation of the worship experience also specifically place women in key positions.
The gifts of "all"
In Exodus 25, the Lord tells Moses that he is to collect the supplies for the construction of the tabernacle from the men, but when the actual gift is given in Exodus 35 the verse notes that all the congregation participated, both men and women. Then in Exodus 36 the narrative states that the “craftsmen” are to construct the tabernacle; however, in 35:25-26 the women spin the yarn in creation of the garments. Each time the narrative expresses a male role, it follows it up with an inclusive “all” alongside a distinct example of a female participating. It is important to note that it is not certain tasks that were reserved for women, because we see that Oholiab, one of the leading assistants [and] a male, is also performing the work of the soft arts like working the linens. Going even further, the text states that the women ministered at the entrance to the tent of meeting in Exodus 38:8. The image presented is that of those who are skilled in a particular craft are the ones to take on that role. Even if certain areas were predominately performed by particular genders, the text does not specifically preclude any one from serving in any capacity. The qualification is that they are “skilled,” a term used thirty-six times in the narrative from Exodus 25-40.
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In the book of Colossians, Paul presents the church worshipping through “psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs.” This is mentioned in the context of building up the church: “one another.” It is a reflexive third-person pronoun suggesting that everyone be active in creating a worshipping congregation.
In fact, there is no historical or biblical evidence that suggests there was any worship role in the early church that was fulfilled only by men or only by women.
The following section has Paul expressing the familial roles of husbands, wives, children, and bondservants. The image is that the house churches were all-encompassing. They had active involvement by both males and females. And the role of building up the church was the responsibility of both. In fact, Philo of Alexandria recorded this practice among early Christians, stating that both men and women lived together and sang songs to Christ both individually and when gathered as a community. Again, the image is that women were active alongside men. Even if their roles differed in the church operations, in the specific act of creating the worship experience, both males and females joined together in the experience. In fact, there is no historical or biblical evidence that suggests there was any worship role in the early church that was fulfilled only by men or only by women.
I do understand that there are various denominational traditions in regards to leadership or pastoral roles for women in the church. I personally hold a traditional view in this matter. However, when it comes to the act of worshipping and the act of producing worship, the Bible shows no differentiation when it comes to the sexes. For this reason, I propose that we as a church tech community ought to become more proactive in creating space for women in the tech booth. Indeed, looking at the biblical examples of the work women performed in the worship experience, they created the most visual acts of beauty. Where the tapestry-linens of the tabernacle walls were woven by women, it seems that God is suggesting that the visual tapestries of slides and set design are a natural inclination for females to present what is pleasing to the Lord for the benefit of the congregation. Likewise, where women would lead the antiphonal singing of psalms and hymns, it seems God is suggesting that women are also naturally inclined to lead the audio mix of multi-channel sound.
... where women would lead the antiphonal singing of psalms and hymns, it seems God is suggesting that women are also naturally inclined to lead the audio mix of multi-channel sound.
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A broadening of mindset
So, what can we do to level out the playing field? I suggest not closing off our tech booths as curmudgeons where others do not feel welcome. Rather, let us make them spaces where creativity and excellence are welcomed and all who are “skilled” are welcome to take a seat, whether it be at the audio desk, lighting console, slide creation, or producing. The tech booth needs to be a place where we welcome the creativity and craftsmanship that God developed in both sexes. The Bible dictates it. The creation of worship is a holistic experience where we all join together as one in praise of Christ: men and women. The tech booth ought to be a living example of that biblical vision.
The creation of worship is a holistic experience where we all join together as one in praise of Christ: men and women. The tech booth ought to be a living example of that biblical vision.
Author's note: This article was inspired by all the women who I have either had the honor of serving alongside or who I have witnessed be influencers in the church tech community. I have to give a shout out to Kat, Debbie, Penny, Kathy, Anne, Rose, Aly, Beth, Julie, Amber, Stephanie, Grace, Melissa, Lexi, Jessica, Margaret, and all the women who take their seat in the booth or tackle AV week in and week out. You and all the women who answer the call to serve in tech, assisting others in worshipping and serving God, are instrumental in God’s plan. You are leading the way for all those to follow after you.
