Power in practice: clergy workplace experiences within the Pentecostal assemblies of Canada

This study is the first indicative, qualitative research to explore the impact of power differentials experienced by clergy within the PAOC. A rich and varied sample of twenty-five current and former PAOC clergy were interviewed on the subject of their own lived experiences in relation to power differentials within the ecclesial system. Utilizing an inductive approach, abuse of power was not assumed as an experience; however, each participant disclosed multiple experiences of mistreatment from their superiors, resulting in significant personal harm (whether emotionally, spiritually, relationally, economically, or otherwise) as a direct result. This study analyzes and codes those experiences, and subsequently categorizes them along three major typological axes, presenting them in a ranked order of prominence. An analysis of the themes and relevant literature emerging around the research topic was also engaged; using Cameron et. al's “Four Voices of Theology” this study articulates a model of renewed praxis for power and leadership that is rooted in an intentional and applied integration of normative theological anthropology. It ultimately concludes with practical recommendations for the PAOC along with particular convictions on what constitutes an ethic of power that is faithfully Christian.