Feminist Pentecostal Hermeneutics

Reflections on the pastoral ministry of women in the Full Gospel Church of God of Costa Rica

Abstract

This article presents reflections aimed at developing a Pentecostal feminist hermeneutic to biblically substantiate the pastoral ministry of women in the Iglesia de Dios Evangelio Completo of Costa Rica. In response to the literalist and patriarchal interpretations that restrict their leadership, the study proposes a shift in the hermeneutical paradigm. Beginning with a historical analysis, it highlights the foundational presence of women (such as the case of mamá Dandie) and the egalitarian principles at the denomination’s origins, contrasting them with the current patriarchal hierarchical structures that subordinate women. The hermeneutical proposal integrates methodological approaches such as the circular structure of understanding (Gadamer), the three poles of the theological method (De Mori), epistemic disobedience (Mignolo), and hermeneutical circularity (Román-López Dollinger). Based on these contextual and liberating approaches, it seeks to make visible and validate spiritual experience and female leadership as legitimate sources of theological knowledge, as well as ways to promote gender equity and empower Pentecostal women pastors, thus following Jesus’ model of service and justice.