Rural Women Rising to Leadership Positions: The Influence of Their Christian Faith and Shepherding Style

Authors

• Jose Carbajal, Stephen F. Austin State UniversityFollow
• Bonita Sharma, University of Texas at San AntonioFollow
• Cherhonda Brown, Stephen F. Austin State UniversityFollow
• Teresa Tarver, Jarvis Christian UniversityFollow
• Emily Powell, Stephen F. Austin State UniversityFollow

Abstract

Purpose. Men maintain the ability to exercise authority and gain a competitive edge in leadership positions, while women persistently endure adversity within the patriarchal system, deeply rooted in their religious beliefs and path of faith. This study explores how women’s faith influences their pursuit of leadership positions and whether their upbringing, especially from a patriarchal perspective, deters them from having leadership aspirations. Methods. We used a qualitative method to understand the lived experiences of women in leadership positions and how faith influenced their leadership ascension. We conducted semi-structured interviews with thirty-four (N = 34) female leaders in top management positions in rural nonprofit organizations, predominantly from East Texas. Findings. Our findings indicate that women who held strong beliefs in faith and spirituality while developing their leadership styles were more likely to experience happiness and perform their leadership roles with a high level of satisfaction. Applications. The study’s findings suggest that Christian faith exerts a notable influence on women’s ability to be leaders.

Recommended Citation

Carbajal, Jose; Sharma, Bonita; Brown, Cherhonda; Tarver, Teresa; and Powell, Emily (2026) "Rural Women Rising to Leadership Positions: The Influence of Their Christian Faith and Shepherding Style," The Journal of Faith, Education, and Community: Vol. 8: Iss. 1, Article 9.
Available at: https://scholarworks.sfasu.edu/jfec/vol8/iss1/9