women in leadership

The early 1970’s saw an astonishing influx of women entering graduate theological studies. By 1983, 25% of the total enrolment in theological schools and seminaries were women and a 400% increase in the number of women in doctoral theological studies was realized (Johnson & Kalven, 1988). All of this has paved a way for women to hold influential roles in our churches today. Concurrently, more and more, women are being invited to the leadership table in denominations across North America. This is all exciting indeed, but remains a relatively new phenomenon and brings to light some new challenges.

Standards and rules of leadership that have been made thus far in society have been written by men and for men in leadership. Women then, in stepping into leadership roles previously held by men must adopt the male norms and attempt to fashion their leadership roles and style by their male forerunners, or begin to formulate their own unique roles and style. Standards and disciplines already established and necessary for leadership, are completely relevant and provide women as well as men with much needed insight. However, there are differences that exist that are as God has ordained it.

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