What is the reality of being African, woman, and Christian? In this collection of original essays, African women theologians write about the life and dreams, the sorrows and joys of African women in a continent where religion shapes the whole of life. The first two parts of the book describe the role of women in terms of culture, rites of passage, and daily life. Attitudes toward birthing and naming, marriage and widowhood, polygamy, prostitution, and death are all explored. The third part focuses on the church, reviewing biblical attitudes toward women, and showing how African women can and should contribute to the life of the Christian church. Contributors: Musimbi R. A. Kanyoro Mercy Amba Oduyoye Rosemary N. Edet Anne Nasimiyu-Wasike Daisy N. Nwachuku Rabiatu Ammah Judith Mbula Bahemuka Lloyda Fanusie Bernadette Mbuy Beya Teresa M. Hinga Anne Nachisale Musopole R. Modupe Owanikin Teresa Okure ""The themes in 'The Will to Arise' constitute the base of contemporary African women's theological scholarship. . . . At their most creative, these theologians affirm cultural traditions and criticize their failings, in order to lead the reader to new visions that can renew religious life in our various contexts. --from the Foreword by Katie G. Cannon Mercy Amba Oduyoye, a leader in the World Council of Churches, is author of 'Hearing and Knowing' and coeditor of 'With Passion and Compassion'. Musimbi R. A. Kanyoro, a Kenyan theologian, is head of the women's division of Lutheran World Federation.