Ep 8. Called To The Collar

In season 1 episode 8 of This is Life with Lisa Ling titled "Called To The Collar," Lisa explores the world of female clergy members in the United States. Lisa follows the journeys of three different women who have chosen to pursue a career in the male-dominated field of religion.

The first woman Lisa meets with is Bishop Yvette Flunder, who founded the City of Refuge United Church of Christ in Oakland, California. Bishop Flunder shares with Lisa the challenges she faced as a Black, queer woman trying to make a name for herself in the religious community. She also discusses the importance of welcoming and accepting all people, regardless of their backgrounds or sexual orientations.

Next, Lisa speaks with Rabbi Lila Kagedan, who made history in 2015 as the first woman ordained by the Modern Orthodox Yeshivat Maharat in New York City. Rabbi Kagedan talks about the hurdles she faced as a woman in the Orthodox Jewish community and how she hopes to pave the way for future female leaders.

Finally, Lisa meets with Pastor Debbie Blue of House of Mercy in St. Paul, Minnesota. Pastor Blue discusses how she incorporates her love of rock music into her sermons and how she hopes to engage younger generations in the church. Lisa attends one of Pastor Blue's services and witnesses firsthand the energy and enthusiasm her unconventional approach brings to a traditional religious setting.

Throughout the episode, Lisa also speaks with various experts, activists, and academics to further explore the challenges faced by women in the religious community. She addresses topics such as gender inequality, sexism, and homophobia within religious institutions.

"Called To The Collar" sheds light on the often-overlooked experiences of women in religion and the importance of diversity in religious leadership. Lisa's interviews with Bishop Flunder, Rabbi Kagedan, and Pastor Blue provide an intimate glimpse into the lives of these trailblazing leaders and their efforts to break down barriers for future generations.