Date of Award

2-20-2025

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Ministry (DMin)

Department

Seminary

First Advisor

William Valmyr, PhD, DMin

Second Advisor

Jamale Kempt, DMin

Abstract

This dissertation explores the scourge of sexism in African and African-American Pentecostalism within the context of a critique of Black Liberation Theology, including the many challenges the intersection of race, gender, and class poses for Black clergywomen seeking leadership roles in the Pentecostal church, their courageous attempts to tackle this problem, and the extent to which sexism has permeated the Pentecostal Church and contributed to the marginalization of Black clergywomen in that community. The broad issue is whether women qua human beings can represent Christ, to which question this study answered yes.

Sexism has harmed Black clergywomen in multiple ways, including belittling their roles by preventing them from clerical roles and perpetrating various forms of abuses against them that, in addition to physical, mental, psychological, and emotional distress, include plain sexual harassment and bullying. These mistreatments, which make them unsafe in the one place where their identities and body should be most protected and respected, instead damage the self-esteem and self-worth of many of these Black clergywomen. Damaging the self-image of these women needlessly breed unresolved issues and trauma.

This study is unique because, simultaneously, it goes beyond earlier research into structural barriers to female leadership to highlight the emotional distress and mental health challenges Black clergywomen face; points up the resilience strategies these clergywomen muster to deal with these challenges; underscores the need for greater institutional support in addressing these issues; combats patriarchal interpretations of the Scripture that undermine women role in leadership; and provides a deeper examination of biblical texts that affirm gender equality in ministry. While previous research often critiques male leadership structures, this dissertation goes beyond those past studies by highlighting both resistance and potential allies among male clergy, pointing up opportunities for collaborative gender advocacy within the church leadership.

Download

Included in

Christianity Commons

Share

COinS