Sexism in Canadian churches: A literature review

In this literature review, I integrate available data on the experiences of Canadian female ministers to assess the cultural impact on their roles within the church. The review reveals a widespread presence of sexism in Canadian churches across various denominations, including those with a long history of ordaining women. Canadian churches remain male-dominant workplaces, with conditions that are often less equitable than those in the broader Canadian workforce. Women encounter a significant discrepancy between their churches’ stated beliefs and actual practices, making their ministry experiences feel like an uphill battle. These findings highlight the necessity for Canadian churches to go beyond merely ordaining women. A deeper commitment to transforming church culture towards mutual love and respect is essential for truly reflecting Christ’s love in the community.