Black Church in Detroit series examines women in ministry | American Black Journal

April 1, 2026

During Women's History Month, a Detroit radio series focused on the role of women in ministry featured Rev. Dr. Jessica Ingram, who established The Woman Difference Collaborative to support female faith leaders. The organization provides networking opportunities through conferences and events while advocating for Black women in leadership positions, including hosting a major event backing Kamala Harris's presidential campaign.

Who is affected

Women pastors and faith leaders in the Black church community
Rev. Dr. Jessica Ingram (Founder of The Woman Difference Collaborative)
Monica Anthony (First Lady of Fellowship Chapel)
Rev. Dr. Jacqueline Nelson (Senior Pastor of Davison Missionary Baptist Church)
Members of The Woman Difference Collaborative
Congregants at churches with women leaders
Black women in leadership roles broadly

What action is being taken

The Woman Difference Collaborative brings together women in ministry to network and uplift each other at conferences and other events
The group advocates for Black women in leadership roles
Host Stephen Henderson is conducting interviews as part of the "Black Church in Detroit" series

Why it matters

This matters because women in ministry face significant gender-based barriers and discrimination, including being denied preaching opportunities and encountering congregants who don't believe women should serve as pastors. The Woman Difference Collaborative provides crucial support by creating a safe, non-judgmental space where women faith leaders can connect, network, and advocate for each other, helping to address longstanding gender dynamics that have historically excluded or limited women's roles in church leadership.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: bridgedetroit.com