Oxygen’s “Preachers” franchise has traveled cross-country from Los Angeles to Motown to spread their mission to focus on faith, family and friendship and transformation and triumphs in and out of the pulpit. Joining the lineup is Bishop Corletta J. Vaughn, a Baptist preacher for more than 40 years. “Corletta” is no stranger to using her stilettos to shatter glass ceilings, in both the Christian and secular arenas.
The senior pastor of the Holy Ghost Cathedral, Vaughn is the first Detroit female consecrated to the Bishopric; Chief Apostle to Go Tell It Evangelistic Ministry Worldwide where her network provides oversight to 70 churches nationally and more than 1,300 ministries globally and now is the first female pastor cast member of the “Preachers of Detroit” series, which premieres on Friday, Feb. 20, 2015, at 8 p.m. EST.
This month Bishop Vaughn officially launches her latest book, Teach Your Daughters to Fly. The book addresses father-hunger and the consequences thereof. “This book is disruptive and in your face truth about what happens to women who have had little to no relationship with their dad,” says Dr. Vaughn.
Her commitment to change is also demonstrated in her conference/workshop series “Women Who Soar,” where she helps women from all walks of life find and live their authentic selves. By helping women find their voice and the incidents of life that cause them to quiet their voices they are able to break free and make their pain pay them. Recalling her painful experiences of being discriminated against because she is a woman preacher she makes no apologies for what God has called her to do — break the glass ceilings and help other women do the same.
Read what she has to say.
Why did you decide to join the cast of “Preachers of Detroit?“
I joined the “Preachers of Detroit” to give women a voice, both inside and outside of the church. For so long women have lived with restrictions in the church, there are many churches today that still don’t allow women to hold leadership positions in the church. My journey has been tough being a female bishop among all-male peers, but I don’t apologize or diminish the call that God has on my life, and won’t allow others to negate my calling. Women have the ability to be great leaders both inside and outside of the church, I want to be the example for what they can accomplish.
What has been the response of congregants and followers regarding your decision?
My congregants and followers have been on the journey with me so they are very excited about my decision. I have been very vocal about my journey and this exposure gives me a larger platform to share my voice. They are happy that I was selected and now that the gospel of Christ will be spread to the non-church masses through this vehicle.
What do you hope viewers will gain from your presence?
I hope my viewers will gain a better understanding and open their minds to women in leadership and the nuances of living your life in a variety of spaces with successful outcomes. Women should not think of their gender as a liability or curse for God. God is NOT mad at girls! God loves women and created us in his image to do incredible things.
What is your perspective of the images of black women on reality TV?
Unfortunately oftentimes black women on reality TV have a negative image. Stereotypical typecasts are displayed and although they are displayed with other cultures as well, black women take a beating from the public for their behavior on reality TV because their behavior fits into the stereotype.
What is it like being the only female among men on reality TV? As a Bishop?
Actually, I am the only bishop female cast member on “POD” but Dorinda Clark-Cole is also a female member of the cast. She, however, shares the view of many men that women should not be leaders in the church. We are definitely on opposite ends of this discussion.
What barriers/obstacles have you overcome?
I could write a book on the barriers and obstacles that I have overcome. Remaining strong and doing the will of God as it relates to me being a female leader, pastor and now bishop has been my foundation in overcoming the many obstacles from lack of respect from my peers to overseeing men in ministry. Systemic prejudice is a horrible barrier because it is taught as truth in the context of pleasing God. You become the object and subject of many sermons, so you cannot have thinned skin; and must endure the hatred and jealousy of other women. One of my mentors told me long ago: “Live long enough to prove your enemies wrong.” Well I’ve done that! Forty years in ministry and 20 of them being a duly consecrated bishop in the Lord’s church with fruit and evidence of my ministry all around the world.
