Due to brain lag from overconsumption of fat-laden food this weekend (I just ate the last piece of pumpkin pie for breakfast), I don’t have a review to offer up. But I do have some semi-random thoughts about female spiritual leadership that I’m sure you’re dying to hear. And I’m dying to hear yours.

I’m not one for feminist utopias. I believe matriarchy has been and would be just as fraught with problems as patriarchy. Different problems, perhaps, but generally speaking women are just as susceptible to corruption from power as men. Case in point: Diamant’s majestic yet cruel Rebecca. 

And yet, I pine for highly visible, spiritually powerful women leaders in the Church. I am not calling for priesthood ordination for women. I don’t think that’s necessary or desirable. But we believe that “Gender is an essential characteristic of individual premortal, mortal, and eternal identity and purpose,” which means (among many other things) that women have particular gifts to offer the church. And regrettably, this influence mostly takes place behind the scenes.

I don’t believe that the largely private nature of women’s influence in the Church means it’s less valuable. I believe Neal A. Maxwell’s remark that “greatness is not measured in column inches–in the newspaper or in the scriptures” (or in the General Conference report, I might add).  But I’m hungry for more interaction with our female leaders. I wish there were more of them (don’t ask me how–I haven’t come up with any ideas yet). I wish there were more occasions to hear from them. And really I wish the RS broadcast didn’t have to be about Relief Society per se. RS is only one spoke in the wheel of female spirituality, and the conference is our lone annual tent meeting.

Speaking of which, I’m all for a monthly women-of-the-ward meeting where we lie around and talk for three days. And eat honeyed cakes, and all that. Are you with me, sisters?