Description
Today, our country and world feel divided and polarized, and this fracturing affects the church as much as any part of society. Many in power sustain their control by encouraging beliefs that run counter to the gospel messages of equality and freedom for all—what the author deems “false piety.” Often, women, people of color, and speakers of languages other than English find themselves disempowered by people who would support them if they truly followed the ways of Christ. In this book, Christine Smith unpacks how ignorance, sexism, racism, and patriarchal structures continue to maintain abusive and economically oppressive systems while offering inspiration on overcoming these barriers for women and the men in ministry who support them.
Author Bio
Christine A. Smith, MDiv, was called as pastor of Covenant Baptist Church, Euclid, Ohio in 2006. She was the church's first female pastor, first African American pastor, and only the second female Baptist pastor of a mainline denomination in the greater Cleveland area (American Baptist Churches USA). Under her leadership, the congregation has doubled in weekly attendance, new ministries have developed, and spiritual vibrancy has flourished.
In 2009, Rev. Smith organized Women Together in Ministry of Greater Cleveland, a network designed to connect, encourage, and support women in ministry. She also produces a weekly blog, "Shepastor," dedicated to equipping female clergy.