Author ORCID
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5634-0632
https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3323-5431
https://orcid.org/0009-0008-2770-3933
Keywords
qualitative research, mini-ethnography, culture, leadership, evangelism, church, urban ministry
Abstract
A mini-ethnographic case study explored the interconnections of organizational culture and pastoral leadership with sustainable outreach in two very different churches that focus on ministry to people with life-controlling issues and economic need: a small, primarily Black church in the Great Lakes region and a large, primarily White and Hispanic church in the western United States. Despite their differences, the churches shared similar espoused values and leadership characteristics that facilitated their outreach initiatives. Themes derived from the data include altruistic foundations, the value of relationships, exemplary pastoral leadership, organizational challenges, agile organizational systems, and the centrality of God.
Recommended Citation
Gordon-Scott, A. P., Henson, J. D., Peters, B. D., & Hutchins, K. (2026). Outside the Church Walls: An Empirical Exploration of Organizational Culture and Pastoral Leadership in Two Urban Churches. Great Commission Research Journal, 18(2), 59-81. Retrieved from https://place.asburyseminary.edu/gcrj/vol18/iss2/5
Included in
Christianity Commons, Practical Theology Commons, Religious Thought, Theology and Philosophy of Religion Commons
