Ghanaian Pentecostal-Charismatic Churches, Women, and the Challenge of Masculinity

This chapter argues that cultural realities are masked in patriarchal and masculine cultures in many African societies. It stresses that the Pentecostal-Charismatic Churches’ (PCC) culture is masculine and tacitly endorses traditional patriarchal structures. The PCC is an extension of the cultural practices and traditions that normalize masculinity and view it as the standard for both sexes. The findings from the data indicate that masculine hegemony is at the heart of the various forms of the PCC ethos, manifested through the cultural or imposed culture of masculinity—placing mostly men at the helm of affairs in the churches. A pathway is designed for power and control over the clients/members, who are primarily women, weak or ordinary males, the sick, and people with problems.