Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson's Never Lost redefines church leadership with justice at its core

Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson's latest book, Never Lost, will be released on February 3, 2026. Aimed at theological seminaries and future church leaders, the work explores how inclusive leadership qualities align with the Gospel's call for justice and shared responsibility. Preorders are now open at NeverLostBook.com.

For over 50 years, Richardson led Grace Baptist Church in Mount Vernon, New York, where he reshaped church governance to dismantle gender barriers. His efforts included the full ordination of women and restructuring leadership to ensure women held positions of authority. These reforms, detailed in his memoir Witness to Grace and expanded in Never Lost, strengthened the church's role as a sanctuary of hope and a force for justice.

The new book dedicates a section to Womanist Theology and the Role of Women in Leadership, framing women's leadership qualities as vital to the Church's spiritual health and moral credibility. Richardson also draws a sharp moral parallel between racial and gender injustice, declaring, 'Sexism is the identical twin of racism.' His argument extends to the Black Church's broader mission, insisting that its commitment to inclusivity is essential for its witness and capacity to drive justice.

Richardson's long-standing advocacy for women in leadership reflects his belief that diversity is not just progressive but a faithful expression of the Gospel. His work at Grace Baptist Church serves as a model for how structural change can foster a more just and representative Church.

Never Lost presents a case for women's leadership qualities as foundational to the Church's future. The book builds on Richardson's decades of reform, offering theological seminaries and students a roadmap for inclusive governance. Its release next year will contribute to ongoing discussions about equity, justice, and the Church's evolving role in society.