Holy Hypocrisy: 21 Ways Churches Keep Failing at Equality and Inclusion

Despite some progress, many churches still fall short when it comes to equality. Here’s a look at how different denominations in the U.S. continue to struggle with equality. 

1. Segregated Congregations

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Despite strides towards integration, many churches remain racially segregated, reflecting broader social divisions within communities.

2. Leadership Roles Limited to Men

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In many denominations, leadership roles, particularly pastoral positions, are still predominantly or exclusively held by men, excluding women from key decision-making roles.

3. Non-Affirming LGBTQ+ Policies

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Several major church bodies still hold non-affirming stances on LGBTQ+ issues, often excluding LGBTQ+ individuals from clergy roles and sacraments like marriage.

4. Resistance to Acknowledging Systemic Racism

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Some churches are resistant to acknowledging the role of systemic racism within their histories and current practices, avoiding conversations that could lead to meaningful change.

5. Lack of Female Clergy

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In denominations like the Roman Catholic Church and certain Evangelical churches, women cannot be ordained as clergy, which limits their leadership opportunities.

6. Insufficient Response to Sexual Abuse Scandals

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Some churches have been criticized for inadequate responses to sexual abuse scandals, often protecting the institution over the victims.

7. Cultural Insensitivity in Worship

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In many multicultural communities, churches often cater to dominant cultural expressions in their worship services, neglecting the diverse cultural backgrounds of their congregants.

8. Inadequate Support for Immigrant Members

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Churches can sometimes fail to provide adequate support or advocacy for immigrant members, especially those who are undocumented.

9. Homogeneous Leadership

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Leadership within many churches often lacks diversity, typically dominated by white males, which does not reflect the diversity of the congregation.

10. Exclusion From Sacraments

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Some churches exclude members of the LGBTQ+ community from sacraments and other rites, such as baptisms, marriages, and funerals.

11. Gendered Expectations

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Traditional gender roles are often reinforced in church teachings and community life, with women frequently directed towards support roles rather than leadership.

12. Silence on Social Justice Issue

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There is often a noticeable silence on current social justice issues, such as police brutality, immigration, and healthcare rights, which can be pivotal for the congregation’s affected members.

13. Failure to Reform Doctrine

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Many churches adhere strictly to traditional doctrines that do not evolve in response to modern understandings of gender, sexuality, and race.

14. Racially Insensitive Liturgy

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The use of racially insensitive language or symbols in liturgy and church teachings can alienate congregants of color.

15. Inadequate Representation on Church Boards

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Church boards and decision-making bodies often lack representation from women, young people, and members of color, affecting the inclusivity of church policies.

16. Poor Accessibility for Disabled Persons

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Church facilities often lack proper accessibility for disabled persons, excluding them from full participation in church life.

17. Discriminatory Marriage Policies

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Many churches still uphold discriminatory policies regarding marriage, particularly concerning same-sex couples.

18. Lack of Engagement With Younger Generations

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Churches often struggle to engage with younger generations who may view the church’s stance on social issues as outdated or irrelevant.

19. Minimal Outreach to Marginalized Communities

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Outreach efforts are frequently minimal or non-existent towards marginalized communities, missing opportunities for support and advocacy.

20. Historical Wrongs Unaddressed

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Many churches have yet to fully address or seek reconciliation for historical wrongs, such as support for segregation or silence during the civil rights movement.

21. Non-Inclusive Language

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The use of non-inclusive language in church communications and teachings can exclude various groups, perpetuating feelings of alienation.

A Long Road to Equality

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While many churches strive to be places of welcome and sanctuary, there is still a significant journey ahead in achieving true equality. Addressing these 21 issues can help churches become more inclusive and representative of all their members.

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For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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