As a new ecclesial community born out of the intersectional oppressive realities of our shared experiences of racism, sexism, and classism, three black clergywomen and co-founding pastors of the Gathering, A Womanist Church are wading in unknown waters. We seek to investigate resources and supports (theological, denominational, and spiritual) needed for womanist ecclesial communities formed to resist white supremacist capitalist patriarchy. I will be the primary investigator/researcher seeking answers to our core question.

I will study three faith communities shaped by a womanist ecclesiology. I will make site visits to Middle Collegiate Church in New York City pastored by Rev. Jacqui Lewis, PhD.; Lewa Farabale, A Womanist Gathering co-led by three womanist clergywomen in St. Louis; and Pink Robe Chronicles, a Sunday morning live stream, in North Carolina, focused on "holistic healing, revolutionary self-care...truth-telling and wisdom bearing" led by Dr. Melva Samson.

As co-pastor of a new model of ministry for Black clergywomen, I am on a journey of discovery-a fact finding mission. In my study through face to face interviews, video recorded interviews, theological reflection, and reading womanist/feminist literature I will investigate the following questions: 1. What is womanist ecclesiology? 2. How can a womanist ecclesiology empower Black clergywomen to partner in shaping communities that resist white supremacist capitalist patriarchy and liberate the oppressed? 3. What are barriers that inhibit heterosexual Black women and men from participating in womanist-led ecclesial communities, and strategies for overcoming? and finally 4. What denominational and/or funding support is needed for womanist ecclesial communities to thrive.

This study will culminate in a white paper to be published on the website of Equity for Women in the Church and a PowerPoint to be presented to seminary students.