Educating American Baptist Pastors: A National Survey of Church Leaders

Abstract

The role of the typical Baptist pastor has evolved well beyond providing spiritual direction. Congregations expect them to fulfill complex leadership roles, similar to those in secular institutions, such as church administrators, political strategists, and social activists. Leadership preparation in seminaries for clergy has not kept up with the changing demands on parish ministers, particularly in urban churches. This study focuses on American Baptist pastors, their leadership styles, roles as spiritual, political, and social leaders within their churches and communities. A national survey of 255 randomly selected pastors analyzed their perceptions of pastoral preparation, leadership roles, and styles. The results show that Black pastors perceive themselves as playing more of a social and political leadership role in their communities than White pastors. Leadership preparation is significant for efficacy and satisfaction with mentoring being a key component.

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