Through research interviews with 19 clergymen of different religious affiliation, age, and race, this volume explores the views and attributes of ordained male ministers. Who is the man behind the pulpit? How does he balance personal and professional life? How do clergymen feel about their chosen profession? What events and family/societal influences led to a life of service? Through the interviews, the author examines these and other aspects of clergy life. The strength of the study lies in the delivery of extensive first-person commentary. From this, the reader gains access to the texture and tone of the voices as well as the men's thinking about theological, moral, and administrative leadership. People considering a life in the ministry, as well as students of sociology, religion, psychology, and anthropology, will be interested in this informative discourse.

This insightful volume provides an in-depth study of the backgrounds, professional role formation, worldviews, and ministerial leadership styles of 17 clergywomen. "Clergywomen and Their WorldviewS" offers both group insights and metaphors helpful in understanding the actualities and ideals of institutional change. Employing sociological theory, such topics as gender orientations, establishing authority, stratification, and cultural belief systems are also discussed. As women increasingly emerge as a force in religious institutions, students of women's studies, religion, anthropology, and sociology will welcome this timely investigation of clergywomen.