Southern Baptists narrowly reject formal ban on churches with any women pastors

The Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) recently voted on a measure to formally ban churches with women pastors. Although the measure received 61% support, it failed to achieve the required two-thirds supermajority. The SBC's statement of faith, which declares only men as qualified pastors, remains unchanged. The decision allows for case-by-case enforcement of this doctrine. Some churches have already been ousted for having women pastors, while others have chosen to sever ties with the SBC, citing their right to determine their own ministry practices.

What was the outcome of the recent vote by the Southern Baptist Convention regarding women pastors?

• The measure was rejected due to lack of supermajority.

• The measure was passed with a supermajority.

• The measure was unanimously rejected.

• The measure was postponed for future consideration.

Why did some opponents believe amending the church's constitution was unnecessary?

• They thought the vote was unfair.

• They believed women should be pastors.

• There were already ways to disassociate with churches allowing women pastors.

• They wanted to change the statement of faith.

What did the SBC's statement of faith update in 2000 declare?

• Only women are qualified for pastoral roles.

• Both men and women are qualified for pastoral roles.

• Pastoral roles are open to all genders.

• Only men are qualified for pastoral roles.

What action did a church in Virginia take in response to the SBC's stance on women pastors?

• They accepted the SBC's decision.

• They held a protest.

• They cut ties with the SBC.

• They changed their statement of faith.

What belief did the Virginia church emphasize after ending its relationship with the SBC?

• The need for a new vote on the issue.

• The importance of maintaining traditional roles.

• The right to ordain individuals based on perceived gifts, regardless of gender.

• The right to follow the SBC's statement of faith.