Ethnic and Gender Diversity in North Georgia PCG

In 2008, Pastor Mark Hardgrove (North Georgia) decided to intentionally recruit pastors for his Pastoral Covenant Group who represented the ethnic and gender diversity in his area. As a result, this first-year group now consists of Caucasian, Haitian and Jamaican pastors-both male and female. When their spouses are present for special events, there is also a Korean among them.

"We are learning so much from one another," Pastor Hardgrove comments. "The pastors appreciate the diversity. The two Caucasian men in our group seem to be the ones most desirous to learn from the other cultures."

Regarding the impact on the women, he continues, "Prior to the formation of our group, the female pastors didn't know one another. Now they have bonded with one another as lady ministers. They have made a significant contribution, and there is an increased appreciation in the group for what the women bring to the table."

Pastor Hardgrove concludes, "This is a safe place. Church size makes no difference; ethnic background makes no difference. Through the Pastoral Covenant Group initiative, we are experiencing bonds of friendship that would not have otherwise been created."