The Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) is poised to vote on a constitutional amendment that would officially prohibit women from serving in pastoral roles. Over 12,000 delegates will decide on the measure at the 2023 annual meeting in New Orleans. This amendment would mandate that affiliated churches prevent women from holding the title of pastor.
While the SBC's Executive Committee advanced the proposal, they have recommended that delegates vote against it. This recommendation stems from concerns that the amendment could trigger a cascade of doctrinal stipulations, potentially impacting church affiliations within the denomination.
Headquarters of the Southern Baptist Convention in Nashville, Tennessee.
Proponents, led by Virginia pastor Mike Law, argue that the amendment provides essential clarity and reinforces biblical teachings. They believe the SBC needs to solidify its stance on this matter.
The Rev. Mike Law, pastor of Arlington Baptist Church, advocates for the amendment.
As a complementarian denomination, the SBC maintains that men and women hold distinct but equally important roles in church leadership. The proposed amendment further entrenches the 2000 Baptist Faith & Message, which restricts the pastoral office to men.
A cross and Bible sculpture outside the Southern Baptist Convention headquarters.
This debate comes as prominent figures like Rick Warren challenge the SBC's recent expulsion of churches with female pastors, including his own Saddleback Church. Several other churches are also appealing their removal over this issue.
Rick Warren contests the SBC's decision to oust churches with female pastors.
In addition to the women pastors amendment, the SBC meeting will address other significant topics like immigration, artificial intelligence, and transgender health care.
