What is this book about?

Drawing on a wide range of primary sources—letters, Acts of the Apostles, Church Fathers' writings, and historical accounts—Kelly meticulously reconstructs the daily realities and spiritual journeys of women within early Christianity. The book examines how women participated in public and private religious life, from household management and instruction in Christian doctrine to formal prophecy, healing, leadership in local communities, and ascetic practices. It explores their relationships with male leaders, their influence in shaping theological debates (even when their direct involvement is debated), and their presence in martyrdom and miracles. Essentially, it is a compelling narrative that reveals women as active agents in the early Church, not merely passive recipients of male authority.