Jarena Lee, an African American Episcopalian (A.M.E.) lived during the 18^th and 19^th centuries and felt strongly that she was called by God to preach. "Go preach the Gospel" is what she professed to have heard from God. She vigorously sought ordination in the A.M.E. Church but was denied on more than one occasion. Her plight was filled with torment and agony, so much so that she contemplated suicide. Jarena lived in a male-dominated society, where women were admonished to "stay in their place". Jarena Lee's call to preach was finally recognized in 2016 when she was posthumously ordained. She is now known as the "first woman preacher in the A.M.E. Church".

Why is this still such an area of contention and controversy? It is not a linear challenge. I propose that it is multi-dimensional in nature and that there are multiple contributing factors that result in the formation of obstacles for the female ordination seekers. It is agreed that we continue to live in a patriarchal society, where male preachers are in power and have control and influence over who gets ordained and who doesn't. Men remain in the seat of power in churches. I propose that male preacher dominance (The Good Ole Boys' Club) is not the only creator of obstacles for women seeking ordination.

In addition, I maintain that the following factors contribute to conditions that challenge female ministers' goals of ordination. I propose that the following are factors to be considered: (a) females in the congregation; (b) other female ministers; (c) Biblical interpretation; (d) personal subjectivity; (e) church politics; (f) doctrinal rules, regulations and practices; (g) tradition; (h) societal beliefs and cultures; (i) available resources and support. It is my contention that parallels will be found among my presumptions, the findings from the Questionnaires, and research of the literature.