Solution Poll and Discussion by Cynthia Parnell McDonald

Instructions

cpmcdonald00 — 2025-06-03 17:43:23 UTC

Create a post sharing your proposal for redesigning the relational landscape for Black clergy
In your proposal, be sure to:
- Clearly describe your suggested changes
- Explain how these changes would impact the relational landscape
- Consider both practical implementation and innovative approaches
Review other proposals and:
- Vote on solutions you find most practical or innovative
- Provide constructive feedback and engage in discussion through comments
Return to check responses to your proposal and continue the discussion

2025-06-04 00:15:56 UTC

To redesign the relational landscape for Black clergy I would invite us to implement a program that strategically creates diverse cohorts that vary based upon gender, age, race/ethnicity, vocational interest, religious experience, etc. The goal is to promote meaningful and impactful relationships among clergy that will influence vocational discernment, etc

Theological Reimagining

2025-06-04 00:16:04 UTC

Redesigning relationships for black female clergy has to happen not only within our institutions but in our congregations as well.

They is always going to be a silent hierarchical image of patriarchy but in female clergy we need to have equal authority with our voices.

Maybe an anti sexism training would help continue what black women have already achieved.

Servant Relationship Leader

2025-06-04 00:16:12 UTC

Leadership Training would be my main focus.
Encouraging relationships that are based on accountability.
Preaching and teaching to achieve effective sharing of the Word.
Being original and authentic.
Caution on Prosperity Gospel.

Impactful Consolidation

2025-06-04 00:20:22 UTC

I would in every community, especially in rural areas, consolidate all of the congregations of people of color into one congregation, using the shared resources to create a stadium type church that can accommodate various types of events--church services, concerts, athletic events, etc. The clergy would lead various small groups, as their area of expertise dictated and the church as a whole would be governed by a Board which consisted of clergy and lay persons, men, women, young and old, that are sensitive to the needs of the particular community in which they service. This sounds like a sky in the pie idea, but when we look at the various early churches in the Bible, we see this has happened before.