Towards the flourishing of Women Ministers in Evangelical Lutheran church in Southern Africa: an African women’s theological engagement with the lived experiences and systemic realities faced by women ministers in the Evangelical Lutheran church in Southern Africa-South Eastern diocese.

Abstract

Towards the flourishing of Women Ministers in Evangelical Lutheran Church in Southern Africa: An African Women’s Theological engagement with the lived experiences and systemic realities faced by Women Ministers in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Southern Africa- South Eastern Diocese. A phenomenological study of lived experiences of women ministers and how they are influenced by systematic patriarchy in their ministry and career growth. The study listened to seven (7) women ministers of ELCSA in their ministerial journey from pre-ordination to ordination and working the field to discover lessons that could be derived from the environmental inhibitors/enhancers of the flourishing of women in ministry. The study looked at processes, acceptance of women and policies and programmes that support flourishing and further sought recommendations from these women on what could be done to enhance women's flourishing. The study used phenomenological approach and held interviews to collect data to understand these lived experiences. Interviews were either face to face or virtual depending on the availability of participants. Engagement with participants enabled the study to draw some conclusions on factors such as heteronormativity, enculturation and absence of gender affirming policies as inhibiting the flourishing of women ministers in ELCSA. The study unveiled an unexpected theme of how sexual reproductive rights as a “sin” has inhibited the flourishing of unmarried young women ministers and remains even a regret for some. Lastly, based on the conclusions drawn, the study brought forth recommendations that may influence or enhance the flourishing of women ministers in ELCSA. The study asserts that should ELCSA leadership engage with gender equity policies, employment policies and clear disciplinary processes that foster a Human Rights advocating space, ELCSA can become an empowering safe space where the flourishing of women ministers can be enhanced and achieved.