The Southern Baptist Convention is preparing to vote on a proposed constitutional ban on churches with women pastors. The vote will take place at the annual meeting of the nation’s largest Protestant denomination June 11-12 in Indianapolis. The denomination’s statement of faith says the office of pastor is reserved for men. However, that statement is non-binding. By some estimates, the proposal could affect hundreds of churches with women as either lead or associate pastors. The denomination can’t tell its independent churches what to do, but it can boot them out. Even without a formal ban last year, it ousted one of its largest congregations, Saddleback Church of California, for having women pastors.
NashVillager Podcast: Church membership declines
What story do church membership numbers really tell? Plus your local newscast for May 13, 2024.
Pope Francis appoints new bishop in Tennessee after former bishop’s resignation under pressure
Pope Francis has appointed Reverend James Mark Beckman as Bishop of Knoxville, Tennessee, almost a year after the previous bishop resigned following claims he mishandled sex abuse allegations. Bishop-elect Beckman is a priest of the Diocese of Nashville where he has served as pastor of Saint Henry parish since 2015.
Nashville’s exvangelical movement
Today, we delve deep inside the growing movement of people who identify as “exvangelicals.”
United Methodists repeal longstanding ban on LGBTQ clergy
They removed a rule forbidding “self-avowed practicing homosexuals” from being ordained or appointed as ministers. Delegates voted 692-51 at their General Conference — the first such legislative gathering in five years.
Why a Thai American man from Murfreesboro spent a week as a Buddhist monk
Becoming a temporary monk is considered a rite of passage for young men in Thailand, but it largely has not carried over to Thai communities in the U.S. Don Srisuriyo, 26, wanted to take on the challenge.
Listen: Nashville high schoolers make space for observing Ramadan, educating peers and connecting more deeply with their faith
The Muslim holy month of Ramadan ends this week. This year, students at Overton High school in South Nashville worked with administration to provide more intentional spaces for students to fast and pray.
‘We’re really lucky to have them’: A third space for Nashville Muslims offers food and community during Ramadan nights
The final Ramadan Nights at The Horn are Friday and Saturday from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Out, About: Lent is the best excuse for seafood
I’ve been meaning to weigh in as a coastal Florida native for some time on the city’s seafood options, so what better time than now?
Profile: Rev. Edwin Sanders and D. Billye Sanders
On February 1, 1981, the Metropolitan Interdenominational Church held its first Sunday service — or celebration, as they call it. The founders of the church are D. Billye Sanders and Rev. Edwin Sanders. Observing denominational and political division amongst the Christian community, they decided to found a church where all were welcome. Their guiding principle is […]
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