One of CBFNC’s founding principles is Autonomy of the Local Church, articulated as follows:
“We affirm that Baptist churches are free, under the Lordship of Christ and guidance of the Holy Spirit, to determine their membership and leadership, to order their worship and work, to ordain whomever they perceive as gifted for ministry and to participate, as they deem appropriate, in the larger Body of Christ.”
Because of this principle, many partner congregations ordain and call women to ministry, including to pastoral roles. Throughout our history CBFNC has celebrated the leadership of women, ordained and lay, in the life of our fellowship.
We commend to our fellowship recent statements issued by CBF Global and Baptist Women in Ministry, and wish to re-emphasize our support for women in pastoral ministry and the congregations who ordain them and call them to service. You are welcomed, valued, appreciated and supported in our fellowship.
