Southern Baptist Convention Voting on Ban on Churches with Women Pastors

Southern Baptist Convention to vote on constitutional ban on churches with women pastors at annual meeting in Indianapolis. Proposal could affect hundreds of congregations and disproportionately impact predominantly Black churches. Debate centers on interpretation of denominational doctrine restricting pastor roles to men only. Amendment proponents argue for reinforcing doctrinal statement, while critics question the need for such a ban and its implications for church autonomy and diversity.