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| author |
Cassandra Spivey-Johnson
| | title |
Sisters at the Well: Ordained-But-Not-Quite-Equal
| | abstract |
This study explores the lived experiences of Black clergywomen who have achieved leadership positions in the Black church. This qualitative study examines the leadership journey of six Black clergywomen leaders using a series of semi-structured narrative interviews that uncover their experiences. The narratives collected through these interviews focus on Black clergywomen's individual stories and experiences and the meanings they gave to these experiences. This study provides insight into their paths to leadership and how they have navigated obstacles/barriers while leading from the margins of the Black church. The findings showed that Black clergywomen do experience barriers based on race, gender, and class oppression and the barriers reflected in written as well as culturally implied doctrinal limitations. Black clergywomen have made strides in leadership with increased ordination and leadership roles/positions in the wider church. However, the local Black church, due to autonomy, is often governed by its traditions that continue to be fueled by oppression, discrimination, and sexism. The experiences of Black clergywomen showed both positive and negative aspects of women's experiences in church leadership. The results from this study address the gaps in present-day literature, including the modern, intersectional experiences of Black clergywomen, the influence of strength and resilience, and their impacts on efficient leadership.
| | school |
The Theological School, Drew University
| | degree |
D.Min. (2025)
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| advisor |
Elizabeth Siegelman
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| committee |
Patricia Gould-Champ
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| full text | CSpivey-Johnson.pdf - requires Drew uLogin |
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