Denise Voïta

Denise Voïta (born March 14, 1928, Lausanne, Switzerland – died April 11, 2008, Lausanne, Switzerland) was a Swiss theologian and feminist. She was a prominent figure in the movement for the ordination of women within the Reformed Church in Switzerland.

Voïta studied theology in Lausanne and Paris. She was ordained as a pastor in 1963, becoming one of the first women ordained in the Canton of Vaud. Her ordination was controversial at the time, as the Reformed Church in Switzerland was divided on the issue of women's ordination.

Voïta was a leading advocate for gender equality within the church and society. She wrote extensively on feminist theology and the role of women in religion. She argued for a more inclusive and egalitarian interpretation of scripture and church doctrine. Her work contributed significantly to the growing acceptance of women in leadership positions within the Reformed Church in Switzerland.

In addition to her work on women's ordination, Voïta was also involved in social justice issues. She actively campaigned for peace and human rights. She received several awards for her contributions to theology and the women's movement. Her work continues to inspire those advocating for gender equality and social justice within religious institutions.