Well Chosen Words

This brochure, produced by Women's Ministries, explains why inclusive language is important and suggests ways to express the fullness of God's presence including guidelines for speaking and writing. Read brochure.

Well Chosen Words (2005 version)

This brochure, updated in 2005, includes explanations of inclusive and expansive language and exploration of the theological underpinnings which express the fullness of God's presence. Produced by Women's Ministries in consultation with the Advocacy Committee for Women's Concerns (ACWC).

Download the 2005 version.

To order, use the order button below or contact Presbyterian Distribution Services at (800) 524-2612. Include the title of the resource and its item number in your request.

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Item #7283905003

Response to Inclusive Language

Report and recommendations in response to referral on inclusive language as recommended during the 196th General Assembly (1984). This clear and concise "working definition" of what is meant by the term "inclusive language" was developed by the Advisory Council on Discipleship and Worship and the Council on Theology and Culture (Minutes, 1984, Part I, page 86). Read the response online.

To order, use the order button below or contact Presbyterian Distribution Services at (800) 524-2612. Include the title of the resource and its item number in your request.

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Item #7042001003

A Report to the Church on Issues of Language and Gender

The Office of Theology and Worship and Research Services were directed to conduct research to assess the current status of the church on inclusive language policy at all levels. This report covers definitions and guidelines on inclusive language adopted by the 197th General Assembly (1985). Read this report online.

What's in a Name?

Who gave you your name? Parents often connect us with others by the name they give us, the name of a grandparent or mother's maiden name. Some of us have wonderful stories to go with our names. Read this essay.

Inclusive Language Sample for Church Bulletins

The following explanation of inclusive language appears weekly in the church bulletin at Central Presbyterian Church in Louisville, Kentucky. Consider printing this text or a variation in your own congregation.

At [name of congregation], we strive to balance traditional images of God with new images that challenge us to recognize God's many faces. The male-centered language the church has historically used links us to a rich heritage; nonetheless, it is incomplete and fails to acknowledge that we are all—male and female—created in God's image. While it is sometimes impossible to use totally inclusive language, today's worship leaders have attempted to use a variety of images and to use language that is inclusive for God and for humankind.

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