The International Church of the Foursquare Gospel affirms the priesthood of all believers — all members have access to God and share in the Church's ministry. However, the Church also has a formal ordained clergy with pastors, evangelists, teachers, and elders. A distinguishing feature is that the Church fully ordains women to all offices, including pastor and evangelist, reflecting founder Aimee Semple McPherson's own prominent role as a preaching evangelist.

The ordination of women was controversial but reflected McPherson's conviction that the Holy Spirit calls and gifts people regardless of gender. This gender-inclusive approach to leadership has continued as a distinctive feature of Foursquare polity. Women are recognized as having equal authority and responsibility in pastoral and preaching ministry, and they serve in significant leadership roles throughout the denomination.