5 more conservative denominations that allow women to be pastors Page 3

Church of the Nazarene

The Church of the Nazarene, founded in the early 20th century and reportedly the largest Wesleyan-holiness movement denomination in the world, allows women to serve as pastors.

“From its very beginning the Church of the Nazarene has recognized from both Scripture and history that God calls women to preach, to pastor, and to other positions of leadership,” wrote Brad Mercer of The Voice in 2018.

“Nazarenes and the Holiness movement of which it is a part have always recognized the spiritual equality of women, and any movement to the contrary is, according to former General Superintendent William Greathouse, ‘from non-Wesleyan, non-Holiness outside influences.’”

Mercer also quoted from the Manual, which includes the official statements of doctrine and polity for the Church, namely its section on “Women in Ministry.”

“We support the right of women to use their God-given spiritual gifts within the church. We affirm the historic right of women to be elected and appointed to places of leadership within the Church of the Nazarene,” the Manual adds.

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