Beyond the Stained Glass Ceiling—Equipping and Encouraging Female Pastors

The reality of a stained glass ceiling is familiar to most women called to the pastorate. Despite being more likely to be seminary educated, female clergy constitute less than 10 percent of Protestant leading pastorates and those who do hold such pastorates are generally paid less than their male counterparts. In light of such statistics, Pastor Chris Smith explores how to overcome the challenges in breaking through the stained glass ceiling and she goes a step further. She shares the lessons learned and best practices of the success stories those women who are currently serving in solo or senior pastorates. Based on a national survey of female clergy, this volume is rich in insights based on data as well as personal anecdotes insights that will empower not only women called to the pastorate but also their male colleagues and denominational leaders who want to support them.

CHRISTINE A. SMITH, MDiv, was called as pastor of Covenant Baptist Church, Wickliffe, 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. Her blog, “Shepastor,” is dedicated to equipping female clergy.