Christian and Missionary Alliance Votes to Ordain Women as Pastors; Eight Congregations Reported to Leave

The Christian and Missionary Alliance (CMA) voted at its general council in Spokane, Washington, in June 2023 to allow women to be ordained and to hold the title of pastor. Two reports say the decision passed with more than 60 percent of delegates in favor. Christianity Today reported that the changes followed four years of official discussion and debate. Under the resolution, men and women may hold the title of pastor or reverend if they meet qualifications and complete the consecration and ordination process in the CMA Manual. Before the change, women in the denomination were consecrated but not ordained and could not use the title of pastor.

The reports differ on the scope of the change. According to MinistryWatch, the resolution affirmed that only men may serve as elders and lead pastors, while both genders may be ordained at the discretion of the local church. ChurchLeaders.com likewise reported that women may still not serve as senior pastors or elders under the policy. CMA President John Stumbo supported the changes while urging delegates to respect differing perspectives. CMA Vice President Terry Smith described the denomination’s stance on women in ministry as “a rather unique centrist position.”

ChurchLeaders.com reported that the policy has led to the departure of eight congregations, primarily from the denomination’s southern district. The same report cited an internal survey finding that 61 percent of CMA members supported the policy change. That figure measures members, not delegates, and it is reported separately from the delegate vote. The other two reports do not mention the departures.

Alliance Bible Fellowship in Boone, North Carolina, voted unanimously to leave the denomination, according to ChurchLeaders.com. Senior Pastor Scott Andrews said the decision was difficult and “grieves us,” and that the church felt compelled to remain faithful to scriptural teaching on complementarianism, the view that men and women have distinct roles in the church. Mick Noel, superintendent of the southern region, has been visiting churches to offer support and to encourage grace and benevolence among people with differing views, a effort that reflects the call to live at peace with everyone where it depends on us (Romans 12:18).

MinistryWatch reported that Salem Alliance Church in Oregon employs 14 women with the title of pastor. U.S. Air Force Chaplain Krista Lain, who is quoted in the same report, said ordination will simplify her work because she will no longer need to explain her credentials.