Protestant ministers seem to be alpha males?

[scriabin]

I remember attending at least a dozen Southern Baptist, “non-denominational”, and evangelical mega-churches while I was growing up.

The thought crossed my mind that all of them had head pastors who were strong, “do-it-my-way-cause-I’m-convicted-in-the-Spirit” type men who were in charge.

As a Catholic I’ve come to know the pastoral styles of a dozen or so priests, only one of whom was a “take-charge” type of guy. I would characterize them as laid back, easy going individuals who talk to the congregation instead of talking at them.

My dad was a career army officer. Was he just taking his family to churches who had leaders like him?

Or is it because Protestant pastors are not appointed like priests but start their own church (which takes a strong leader to make it work) or are hired by the congregation (which requires assertive self-selling to the selection committee)?

Or am I seeing things that aren’t there?

 

[Contarini]

Don’t generalize about Protestants. However, the “free church” polity that emphasizes congregational independence does encourage this kind of pastoral style. United Methodist and Episcopal clergy are less likely to be like this.

Edwin

 

[strngrnrth]

It does seem reasonable that people who start their own churches, denominations or theologies would be the kind who expect to attract followers, and the ones willing to go through seminary would be more patient and willing to learn before teaching, on average.