Abstract
A significant body of empirical studies shows the relationship between support for women clergy and denominational affiliation, but few analyze how pulpit discourse influences congregants’ support or disapproval of women clergy. Gender inequality among clergy is partly attributable to cultural values resident in local congregations; hence, studying how religious elites craft narratives concerning gender and ordination helps us understand the mechanisms involved in moving women into ecclesiastical authority. This article delineates how a new senior pastor’s liberal preaching and female clerical appointment helped Second Baptist transform into an internal system of support for women to exercise ministerial leadership and spiritual gifts. This article demonstrates the role of leadership, discourse, symbols, and mentoring in producing more women clergy and shaping the beliefs and values of the congregation.
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