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Abstract

This article examines the experiences of women serving as full-time ministers in the Churches of Christ. Analysis of the Siburt Institute’s 2025 Salary Survey shows a large gender pay gap that speaks to concerns regarding support and sustainability in ministry. To better understand mechanisms that impact both support and sustainability, a separate qualitative study was performed that analyzed the interviews of twenty-one full-time, female ministers. The study revealed recurring features of unhealthy systems and the impact of unhealthy systems on women in ministry. Conversely, the interviews illuminated hallmarks of healthy systems and the results that emerge out of such systems. The article concludes with a call to action that urges churches to make intentional systemic changes in order to foster an environment that leads to ministerial flourishing.

Author Bio

Jennifer Reinsch Schroeder -- Jennifer, a former children’s minister for almost two decades, now serves in multiple roles at Abilene Christian University. In addition to directing Summit as part of her work with the Siburt Institute for Church Ministry, she teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in children and family ministry and is the director for the Center for Women in Christian Ministry. Jennifer earned her Doctor of Ministry degree from Abilene Christian University, and she, her husband, Greg, and their four children live in Abilene, TX.

Creative Commons License

Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.

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