Progressive National Baptist Convention

The congregations which make up the Progressive National Baptist Convention are not bound by denominational directives. Nevertheless, across the denomination there is a discernible trend toward inclusiveness in worship. Also integral to worship is a tradition of social witness, particularly in issues which affect the African American community. The churches which make up the Progressive National Baptist Convention, Inc. , are involved in several ways in the effort to integrate the worship life of the congregation with the overall ministry thrust of the each local church. Inclusiveness in Worship The Progressive National Baptist Convention has no stated policy on women in the ordained ministry. Women pastors are active in the national, regional, state, and district associations in which Progressive Baptist churches convene. The fact that the local Baptist church is autonomous prevents the structures of the denomination from dictating the policy and practices of the local church, as…