Who Was The Disciple Also Known As Levi Before Following Jesus?

New York Church Sparks Outcry For Following Tradition

Kevin R. Johnson, the esteemed founding pastor of Dare to Imagine Church in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is currently poised to step into a significant leadership role at the renowned Abyssinian Baptist Church in New York City. This recommendation comes amidst a backdrop of ensuring the church’s longstanding tradition of male pastors, a matter that gained attention earlier this year when a woman pursued legal action after being overlooked for the position.

An internal church memorandum, dated April 13 and reported by The Associated Press, conveyed the Pulpit Search Committee’s unwavering confidence in Rev. Johnson’s ability to honor and carry forward the institution’s storied history and spiritual legacy. The committee eagerly anticipates presenting Johnson as the final candidate for congregational approval, with specific details regarding the voting process to be communicated in due course.

The vacancy at Abyssinian Baptist Church arose on October 28, 2022, following the passing of its revered pastor of three decades, Calvin O. Butts III. In the wake of Butts’ passing, Rev. Eboni Marshall Turman, a distinguished figure in the church’s narrative, aspired to ascend to the position of Abyssinian’s first female pastor.

However, when Turman was not advanced as a finalist by the search committee, she took legal action, alleging gender discrimination against the church and its search committee. Turman’s lawsuit highlighted the inappropriate questions directed at her during the selection process, along with clear indications of bias against female candidates.

Turman’s legal challenge underscored remarks attributed to the search committee chair, Valerie S. Grant, suggesting a reluctance within the committee to entertain the idea of a female pastor. Nonetheless, Turman emphasized the pivotal role of the congregation in the ultimate decision-making process, emphasizing the Baptist principle of the “priesthood of all believers.”

In the midst of this contentious backdrop, Johnson’s nomination has generated heightened anticipation within the congregation. Johnson’s impressive track record, as highlighted on his church’s website, along with his commitment to faith and community service, resonates deeply with the ethos of Abyssinian Baptist Church.

As the congregation gears up to cast its pivotal vote on the appointment of its new pastor, the outcome will not only shape the future leadership trajectory of Abyssinian but also serve as a significant reflection of broader discussions surrounding gender equality and inclusivity within religious institutions.