“You can’t break a woman who gets her strength from God.”
—Alli Worthington
About the Study
““Research is formalized curiosity. It is poking and prying with a purpose.””
Dr. Rios along with her research partner, Dr. Liz Mosbo VerHage were given a Louisville Pastoral Study grant in 2024. The project's primary objective is to explore the remarkable resiliency of women ministers in a world marked by misogyny, and to understand how this resilience has driven them to pursue unconventional paths in ministry. To achieve this, a diverse and intergenerational group of women will be brought together, representing various cultural backgrounds and races. See how you can be a part of this study below.
Empowering Resilient Women Ministers: Unveiling the Fuel to Serve Amidst Misogyny
“In a world that tries to dim our light, we gather as intergenerational, racially diverse women ministers, igniting the flame of resilience as we uncover the untold stories, celebrate our strengths, and inspire future generations by illuminating the pathways that empower women leaders to shine and grow beyond the limits of systemic discrimination. ”
Phase 1: Take Part in the Survey
May 1- June 1 Collection Period
There is a story in data we collect. But our tools don't know what that story is. That's where it takes us—the analyst or communicator of the information—to bring that story visually and contextually to life.
Phase 2: Invitation to Listening Gathering on Zoom
A few of those who do our survey will be be invited to go deeper into their story with us.
“Maybe stories are just data with a soul.” – Brene Brown
Phase 3: In-Person Interviews with A Few Select Seasoned Leaders
After patterns have been determined through survey and zoom listening sessions have been conducted, a few seasoned leaders will be asked to respond to the findings based on their own personal experiences.
“The best research you can do is talk to people.” -Terry Pratchett
Phase 4: Share the Data
On Wednesday, Sept 3 at 7 PM EST, join us for an important conversation: Resilient Woman: Louisville Study Data Drop. Over 600 women in ministry lifted their voices and now we’re sharing their truth.
This research is different. Unlike big firms or Anglo male-led studies, this project was led by two women scholar-practitioners—Rev. Dr. Liz Ríos & Rev. Dr. Liz Mosbo VerHage—who live, preach, and lead from and alongside the margins. We listened with both head and heart, weaving together data and lived experience to show what women ministers are really facing and what resilience looks like today.
Why it matters: Because the future of the church depends on telling the truth, amplifying women’s voices, and reimagining ministry together.
Download Our Results
Download Our Results
Over 600 women in ministry across the U.S. shared their stories, struggles, and strengths in one of the most comprehensive studies of its kind. Conducted by Rev. Dr. Liz Ríos and Rev. Dr. Liz Mosbo VerHage, this research lifts up voices too often overlooked in church and academic spaces.
Unlike similar studies, Resilient Woman was shaped by two women scholar-practitioners who stand inside the very communities being studied. The result is a data-rich, heart-driven snapshot of what women in ministry are experiencing right now and what fuels their resilience, and what their resilience means for the future of the church.
Inside this free executive summary, you’ll find:
The purpose and scope of the study
Insights into the pressures and possibilities facing women ministers today
Practical implications for leaders, congregations, and institutions
Some voices from the study that say it all:
“Toxic misogyny is more pernicious than toxic racism for women.”
“Healthy women colleagues who see me fully keep me going.”
“My whole career has been a prophetic push—a challenge to the system.”
Download it for free.
Then, share it widely. Every download helps amplify the voices of women ministers and advances the conversation about justice, equity, and women in ministry leadership.
We thank you for your interest. If you share on social media, please do tag us.