“On Diversity and Inclusive Spiritual Leadership in American Christian Churches”

Recent studies have consistently demonstrated that most multicultural, multiethnic, and multiracial congregations in America are not led by a senior Pastor who is a minority (i.e. brown, hispanic, black, Asian).

Nonetheless, the few congregations in America that are multicultural, multiethnic, and multiracial are not only run by an Anglo or White Senior Pastor, their leadership staff is predominantly white and racially exclusive. I would like my Christian friends and ministers to consider the following questions:

1. Why do these churches function that way?

2. Why do these churches follow such a focused leadership structure that contradicts or is insensitive to the biblical vision of diversity and inclusion in Christian churches and church leadership?

3. Is there a problem of fear (in these congregations) of being led spiritually by a non-white Senior Pastor?

4. Is the spiritual leadership of/from a hispanic, brown, black, or Asian pastor less trusted in these noted congregations?

If American (Evangelical) christians believe in (spiritual) equality in Christ, why is this Christian conviction less evident and remarkable in pastoral leadership and ministerial functions in our contemporary churches?

Consider Paul’s daring assertion in Galatians 3:28, “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”

What are your thoughts?