Words: Emily Woods 

Introducing some of the top Christian women who have dramatically shaped the culture, or who are currently impacting it right now. From missionaries in Asia, to key members of political parties – read about the lives of these fascinating women and the lasting contributions they have made (in no particular order). 

Elizabeth Elliot
American author and speaker, and also former missionary in South America, Elizabeth Elliot has been an incredible example of what it is to live as a godly, biblical woman in our present times. She was originally married to the famous missionary, Jim Elliot, who had worked alongside her in reaching out to the Quechua Indians in Ecuador, before he was sadly killed in their third year of marriage. Despite her husband's death though, she continued to serve as a missionary with the Quecha Indians for another two years. Over her lifetime, Elizabeth Elliot has written over 20 books, has contributed to the NIV translation of the Bible (the most popular English translation), and has been a much-demanded speaker at conferences. She inspires and teaches so many people – both men and women alike – and leaves a wealth of legacy for many generations to come. 

Amy Carmichael
During the 83 years of her life (1867-1951), Amy Carmichael (originally from Ireland) devoted just over half of it serving in India as a missionary. Her particular ministry was in the Indian town of Donhavur, where she single-handedly set up an orphanage for young girls who were being forced into prostitution as part of the local temple worship practices. Amy founded an organisation called the Dohnavur Fellowship, which became a sanctuary for over a thousand, otherwise helpless, children. Her great example as a devoted missionary has inspired many others to pursue similar paths. 

{mosgoogle right} Rosemary Bimbo Odukoya
Before her tragic death following an airplane crash in 2005, Rosemary Bimbo Odukoya had played a major role in the nation building and development of Nigeria, her country, and West Africa, receiving over 60 national and international awards for her achievements. She was also looked upon as an exemplary role model and well respected for her leadership and high moral standards. Bimbo Odukoya was the associate senior pastor of the Fountain of Life Church in Nigeria, serving alongside her husband Pastor Taiwo Odukoya, as well as a writer, televangelist, conference speaker, and marriage counsellor. So well recognised by her country, she was chosen to be one of the 3 representatives for Nigeria to carry the Olympic Torch at the 2004 Olympic games.

Sara Groves
Talented American singer and songwriter, Sara Groves (pictured above), has been a prominent figure on the contemporary Christian music scene since 1998. She has released six albums  (as well as having appeared on many others) and has been nominated 'New Artist of the Year' at the Dove Awards (2002) and one of the best Christian music artists (2005). Her albums have also won much recognition, being nominated for the Dove Award 'Special Event Album of the Year' (2003) and winning the title 'Album of the Year' (2005) by CCM Magzine for her album 'Add To The Beauty'. Aside from her music achievements, Sara has also been involved in practical outreach in her nation, such as initiating a team of transport to take supplies to victims of Hurricane Katrina in Louisianna in September 2005.  

Philippa Stroud
For over 20 years of her life, Philippa Stroud has been actively involved in social action projects in various places around the world and across the UK, mainly to do with homelessness, drugs, and poverty in general. This passion of hers, doubled with a sharp intelligence, eventually led her to into the political scene where she became the founder of the Centre for Social Justice in 2003. Two years following, Philippa took on the role of Executive Director of the Conservative Party's Social Justice Policy Group, which she is working under to this day in Westminster in London. Philippa is also married to David, one of the elders of an exciting new church plant, ChristChurch London, in the heart of the capital, and they have 3 children.