Black Church Research Articles

Keep it Movin': Design and methods of a church-based physical activity program to improve physical function among midlife and older black adults.

Older Black adults have high rates of physical function (PF) limitations. Physical activity (PA) is effective for improving PF and reducing mobility disability risk; however, community-based PA interventions focused on improving PF for older Black adults are lacking. Given the importance of churches as trusted institutions in Black communities, church-based interventions developed through community collaborations may help increase access to PA interventions. Keep it Movin' is a church-based cluster randomized controlled trial testing the effectiveness of a 24-week group-based (intervention arm) versus a self-guided (comparator arm) program in improving PF among Black adults aged ≥40 years with PF limitations (short physical performance battery [SPPB] score ≤ 9). A church-wide virtual walking program is available to congregants in both arms. The intervention arm receives weekly group-based classes held at the church that include education, goal setting, and structured PA (walking, lower-extremity strength, balance, and stretching). The comparator arm receives educational materials about PA appropriate for people with PF limitations. Outcomes are assessed at 6 (program completion) and 12 months (maintenance). The primary outcome is PF change as measured by the SPPB at 6 months. Secondary outcomes include change in moderate-to-vigorous PA, social support and self-efficacy for PA, quality of life, and self-reported PF. Factors related to successful adoption, implementation, and maintenance are assessed using the Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance (RE-AIM) framework. This is the first study to evaluate the effectiveness of a group-based PA program delivered in Black churches to improve PF.

Leonard Cornell McKinnis II. (2023). The Black Coptic Church: Race and Imagination in a New Religion

Leonard Cornell McKinnis II. (2023). The Black Coptic Church: Race and Imagination in a New Religion, New York: New York University Press, 239pp., Pb. $30.00. ISBN-13: 9781479816460

Networking the Black Church: Digital Black Christians and Hip Hop, written by Erika D. Gault

Networking the Black Church: Digital Black Christians and Hip Hop, written by Erika D. Gault

Implementing a Grief Support Program in a Black Church to Support the Mental Health Needs of People in Bereavement.

Implementing a Grief Support Program in a Black Church to Support the Mental Health Needs of People in Bereavement.

Abstract A133: The Church Study: Bridging the gap in colorectal cancer screening of Black patients

Abstract Introduction: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second leading cause of cancer death in the US, disproportionately affecting Black Americans with a 25% higher risk and 40% greater mortality than non-Hispanic White Americans. Data on CRC screening preferences among Black patients is limited. We conducted a survey to evaluate CRC screening preferences and barriers to screening after a culturally tailored educational talk among Black churchgoers. Aim: The aim of this study is to assess the preferences and barriers to CRC screening among Black Americans, utilizing culturally tailored educational interventions to enhance screening uptake. Methods: Participants aged 45-85, at average CRC risk, were recruited from three predominantly Black churches in disadvantaged areas of Atlanta, excluding high-risk individuals and those outside the age range. CRC education, vetted for cultural sensitivity, was provided. Informed consent was waived by Morehouse IRB but ensured through educational sessions with opportunities for questions. A 30-question survey covered Demographics, Medical History, Screening Experience, and Preferences. Participants received a $25 Amazon gift card post-survey. Descriptive statistics were applied to demographics and CRC screening preferences, categorized per NCCN guidelines. Results: Out of 101 participants, 64% preferred blood-based screenings and 19% preferred fecal-based testing. Over 73% reported being up-to-date with CRC screening, with more than 61% having a colonoscopy as their most recent CRC screening test. Additionally, 30% of participants were willing to be CRC awareness advocates. Healthcare provider access was high, with 94% reporting having a primary care provider. Trust in providers was approximately 92%, with 4% expressing distrust and 4% uncertain. Conclusions: Despite being in underserved areas, participants reported no significant barriers to CRC screening, with most up-to-date on prevention. Their active participation and willingness to advocate underscore the effectiveness of church settings in health education for Black communities. Preferences for blood-based screenings indicate openness to less invasive options, highlighting the need for tailored interventions. High trust in healthcare providers challenges the narrative of mistrust among African Americans, demonstrating that culturally sensitive, community-focused engagement enhances preventive health participation. The willingness of 30% to become CRC awareness advocates demonstrates strong potential for community-driven health initiatives. Citation Format: Toni M. Jackson, John Onyekaba, Kingsley K. Njoku, Ankita Shah, Carrie Smith, Chima Amadi, Kapil Chandora, Daniela Ortegasantori, Hafsa Gundroo, Temitope Tobun, Daniel Hommes, Julia Liu. The Church Study: Bridging the gap in colorectal cancer screening of Black patients [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 17th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2024 Sep 21-24; Los Angeles, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2024;33(9 Suppl):Abstract nr A133.

How effective are church-based weight-loss interventions among Black adults? A systematic review.

Churches are frequently used to reach Black adults to effect weight loss. However, there has been no recent review, to our knowledge, inclusive of solely Black adults in church settings. We sought to comprehensively examine the methodological approaches and weight-loss outcomes of church-based weight-loss lifestyle interventions conducted among Black adults to provide insights on literature gaps and offer suggestions for future research. Google Scholar, PubMed, and CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature) were searched for trials conducted in churches that reported weight outcomes at any time point. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guided manuscript development. A total of 15 studies (N = 2285) from 2007 to 2023 met inclusion criteria, and 33% were high-quality randomized trials. The majority were pilot studies (60%) conducted in the Southern United States. Most reported significant postintervention weight loss. The follow-up time points varied from 2 to 12 months. Methodological approaches included the following: cultural adaptations (93%); theory-guided (93%); delivered by community health workers (80%); and delivered in person in a group format (100%). Only one study offered individual-level attention beyond texts/emails. Most participants were well-educated female individuals. Weight-loss interventions among Black church settings effect statistically significant weight loss, albeit in a small way. Limitations include pilot studies and small samples. More rigorously designed studies are warranted.

Henry Louis Gates Jr., The Black Church: This Is Our Story, This Is Our Song

Henry Louis Gates Jr., The Black Church: This Is Our Story, This Is Our Song

Nurturing Black Male Mental Health Through the Black Church: A Conceptual Approach from a Social Work Perspective

ABSTRACT This article introduces a conceptual framework rooted in social work principles to support the mental well-being of Black males within the nurturing and supportive setting of the Black Church. It addresses how historical trauma, societal views of Black masculinity, and social determinants of health have made Black men more likely to experience mental health challenges. The framework combines vulnerability theory and social work theory to focus on Black men’s strengths and cultural sensitivities. It emphasizes the Black Church as a critical resource for promoting mental wellness and resilience. The approach includes implementing effective interventions to challenge stigma, improve the availability of mental health services, and encourage Black men to seek assistance. This article presents a holistic approach aimed at addressing mental health disparities experienced by Black males. It proposes using the strengths of the Black Church to promote resilience, facilitate healing, and encourage Black men to prioritize their mental well-being.

An Intermittent Fasting Intervention for Black Adults Can Be Feasibly Implemented in Black Churches: A Cluster Randomized Controlled Pilot Study

BackgroundIntensive lifestyle interventions, including modest reductions in daily caloric intake (ie, continuous calorie energy reduction [CER]), are recommended by US national professional health organizations (eg, American Heart Association). However, they are less effective in Black communities. A burgeoning literature has reported the promise of intermittent fasting (IF) as an alternative strategy for weight loss. However, IF studies have been conducted with White participants predominately and provided participant resources not readily available in real-world situations. ObjectiveWeight-loss and weight-related outcomes of a scalable (ie, able to be widely disseminated and implemented) IF intervention developed with and for Black adults were compared with a CER intervention for the purpose of determining IF’s feasibility (ie, initial effectiveness, adherence, and acceptance) in a Black community. DesignA cluster randomized controlled pilot study was conducted. Participants/settingA total of 42 Black adults with a body mass index (calculated as kg / m2) ≥25 were recruited from 5 Black churches (3 IF and 2 CER) in Western New York State from September 2021 to May 2022. Participants were free of medical conditions that might have contraindicated participation in a weight-reduction program and other factors that might affect weight loss. InterventionsCommunity health workers delivered the 6-month, 16-session, faith-based IF and CER interventions. Main outcome measuresThe primary outcome was feasibility, consisting of initial effectiveness on body weight (ie, percent body weight lost from baseline to 6-month follow-up), adherence, and acceptability. Statistical analyses performedDescriptive statistics and linear mixed models accounting for within-church clustering were used. A baseline covariate corresponding to the outcome variable was included in the model. Intent-to-treat analysis was used. ResultsThere was statistically significant weight loss within both arms (IF: –3.5 kg; 95% CI –6 to –0.9 kg, CER: –2.9 kg; 95% CI –5.1 to –0.8 kg) from baseline to 6-month follow-up. Compared with CER, IF led to significantly lower daily energy intake (414.2 kcal; 95% CI 55.2 to 773.2 kcal) and fat intake (16.1 g; 95% CI 2.4 to 29.8 g). IF may result in lower fruit and vegetable intake (–103.2 g; 95% CI –200.9 to –5.5 g) and fiber intake –5.4 g; 95% CI –8.7 to –2 g) compared with CER. Participants in the IF arm completed a mean (SE) of 3.8 (1.4) more self-monitoring booklets compared with those in the CER arm (P = .02). Participants reported high levels of satisfaction with the program. ConclusionsAn IF intervention developed with and for Black adults can be feasibly implemented in Black churches. Larger studies need to be conducted to ascertain the extent IF can serve as a viable weight-loss alternative to CER interventions in Black communities.

The Role of Black Churches in Promoting Mental Health for Communities of Socioeconomically Disadvantaged Black Americans.

Churches in socioeconomically disadvantaged neighborhoods serve as safe havens in many Black communities. Churches provide faith and charitable services but often have limited resources to address the mental health needs of their communities. This article reports on a collaborative effort, driven by members of a Black church, to understand mental health needs, coping strategies, and resilience factors in a community of socioeconomically disadvantaged Black Americans. A community-based participatory research effort was established among a church, a community mental health organization, clinicians, and researchers to interview and survey individuals residing near the church. The sample consisted of 59 adults, most of whom were ages 46-65 years, men (N=34, 58%), and unemployed (N=46, 78%). Mean scores on the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (9.2±7.7) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 scale (9.4±6.7) were almost three times higher than those reported by studies of other Black populations in the United States. Five themes emerged: prolonged poverty and daily exposure to violence trigger emotional distress, mental health stigma affects help seeking, spirituality promotes mental relief and personal recovery, spirituality helps in coping with poverty and unsafe neighborhoods, and church-based programs are needed. Uptake of traditional mental health services was low, and reliance on faith and resource distribution by the church was high. Church-led interventions are needed to promote mental health at the individual and community levels. Mental health stigma, and negative attitudes toward mental health promotion in the community, may be addressed by integrating traditional mental health services in church-based recreational and leisure activities.

Attitudes of Black American Christian church leaders toward Opioid Use Disorder, overdoses, and harm reduction: a qualitative study.

Black American Christian church leaders are trusted community members and can be invaluable leaders and planners, listeners, and counselors for Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) sufferers in the opioid overdose crisis disproportionately affecting the Black community. This qualitative study examines the extent to which the knowledge, attitudes, practices, and beliefs of Black American church leaders support medical and harm reduction interventions for people with OUD. A semi-structured interview guide was used to conduct in-depth interviews of 30 Black Rhode Island church leaders recruited by convenience and snowball sampling. Thematic analysis of the interviews identified four themes: Church leaders are empathetic and knowledgeable, believe that hopelessness and inequity are OUD risk factors, are committed to helping people flourish beyond staying alive, and welcome collaborations between church and state. Black American Christian church leaders are a critical resource in providing innovative and culturally sensitive strategies in the opioid overdose crisis affecting the Black American communities. As such, their views should be carefully considered in OUD policies, collaborations, and interventions in the Black American community.

The Black American Church: A Reactionary and Ideological Apparatus of Slavery

This work argues that Denmark Vesey, Nat Turner, Gabriel Prosser, David Walker, Henry Highland Garnet, amongst a few others, were the reactionary (dialectical) exceptions to the black church, not the norm, an (ideological) institution established to interpellate and indoctrinate blacks to accept their conditions in slavery and integrate them into the Protestant Ethic and the spirit of capitalism. In other words, the aforementioned were the enslaved who used Christian dogma to (negative dialectically) respond to the barbarity of slavery by violently convicting white Christian society for not living up to its values, ideas, and ideals given the treatment of African people by so-called Christians. In the latter sense it was reactionary; in the former, it was an ideological apparatus of domination and control for the institution of slavery and black integration into the bourgeois living of the Protestant Ethic and the spirit of capitalism. The contemporary attempt to racially vindicate the black church as a sui generis revolutionary institution overflowing with Africanisms that stood against the Protestant Ethic and the spirit of capitalism is ahistorical and ideological reaped in pseudoscientific propositions stemming from postmodern and post-structural theories.

Have We Lost the “Soul” of the Black Church: Returning to Our Roots

This article critically analyzes the distinctive role and evolution of the Black church, with an emphasis on its preaching traditions and its impact on social and political activism within the Black community. The focus is on the shift from collectivism to individualism within the Black church, exploring its implications for community activism and the perpetuation of structural inequities. By delving into traditions of Black preaching and the historical context of the Black church's activism, the article strives to illustrate the benefits of a more collectivistic approach. Finally, it outlines potential strategies to encourage a return to collectivism, as well as means to counter the persistent structural inequities within the Black community. This examination adds to the discourse on the prevailing influence of religious institutions on societal change and equity.

2023 Black Theology and Leadership Institute: The Neoliberal Homiletic

This article delves into the intersection of race, economic ideology, and Christian identity formation within the context of Black preaching to articulate what is referred to as the “neoliberal homiletic.” The neoliberal homiletic refers to the uncritical adoption of economic, ideological concepts within preaching practices, leading to a reshaping of theological goals and individual identity as examined in the context of the Black church. Preaching influenced by economic ideas constructs a Christian identity that aligns with market values and reinforces economic systems of oppression. Despite these challenges, a hopeful path forward is found in a return to historical traditions of Black preaching, which emphasize community solidarity, resistance to oppression, and a theological preference for the poor. Reclaiming these traditions can empower the Black church to address the socio-economic challenges faced by marginalized communities and counteract the pervasive influence of economism.

Strategies for Recruiting Older Black Men into Aging and Alzheimer's Research

Abstract: Background: Despite their high risks for Alzheimer's disease, older Black men are minimally represented in Alzheimer's research and clinical trials. The absence of older Black men in Alzheimer's research limits our ability to characterize the changes associated with cognitive impairments in older Black men—a key health disparity concern. Methods: Drawing on lessons we learned from years of community-based participatory research in Newark, NJ, we highlight recruitment strategies developed alongside community partners to guide our enrollment and retention efforts for Black men. Results: We identified seven recruitment strategies: provide indirect health education through social programming, target older men through the younger men in their lives, go beyond Black churches, use older Black men as trained community ambassadors, enlist the women in Black men's lives, frame research participation as a legacy to leave their sons, and use past and current Black men participants as role models. Conclusions: These recruitment strategies help us address many barriers to recruiting older Black men. They can be easily implemented by researchers conducting aging and brain health research or interested in working with older Black men and under-represented populations.

Rise of the Neoliberal Black Church

Rise of the Neoliberal Black Church

Engaging African American Faith Leaders as Partners in Ethical Research

This paper outlines an initiative to adapt the Community Partnered Research Ethics Training (CPRET) for the cultural context of the CHURCH (Congregation as Healers Uniting to Restore Community Health) project. The CHURCH project is a community-partnered participatory research project that seeks to promote the mental well-being of African American populations by developing, implementing, and evaluating a mental health training curriculum for faith leaders in Black churches. Participatory research, in which community stakeholders collaborate with researchers as equal partners to address problems impacting marginalized communities, has recently become more popular in academia. Training is necessary to equip community partners with the skills and knowledge required for full research participation. Community partners frequently encounter ethical issues in participatory research, but limited training resources are available to proactively prevent and address such issues. The CPRET was developed through a collaboration between the Clinical and Translational Science Institute and the Human Research Protection Office and Community Research Advisory Board at the University of Pittsburgh. It surveys research processes and core research ethics principles, and it stimulates discussion regarding best practices by engaging participants in scenario-based exercises in which they identify ethical and unethical research. By describing how we utilized the CPRET in the CHURCH project and presenting a summary of participant feedback, we aim to build resources for community-engaged scholars seeking to engage community members in ethical research.

The Black American Church: A Reactionary and Ideological Apparatus of Slavery

The Black American Church: A Reactionary and Ideological Apparatus of Slavery

Reach and Capacity of Black Protestant Health Ministries as Sites of Community-Wide Health Promotion: A Qualitative Social Ecological Model Examination.

Black communities in the Southeast United States experience a disproportionate burden of illness and disease. To address this inequity, public health practitioners are partnering with Black Protestant churches to deliver health promotion interventions. Yet, the reach of these programs beyond the organizational level of the Social Ecological Model (SEM) is not well defined. Thus, the aim of this study is to understand Black Protestant church leaders' and members' perceptions about the capacity of their ministries to reach into their communities, beyond their congregations, as providers or hosts of health education or promotion interventions. From 20 Black Protestant churches in Atlanta, GA, 92 church leaders and members participated in semi-structured interviews. Grounded theory guided data analysis and a diverse team coded the interviews. Most participating churches had health ministries. Participants saw the boundaries between their churches at the organizational level of the SEM and the broader Black community to be porous. Those who described their "community" as being broader than their congregation also tended to describe community-wide health promotion their church engaged in. They described church-based health fairs as a strategy to promote engagement in their communities. Some participants, particularly those in a health-related profession, discussed visions of how to utilize their church as a site for community-wide health promotion. We suggest these participants may be boundary leaders who can build relationships between public health professionals, pastors, and congregants. Based on the findings, we suggest that church-based health fairs may be effective sites of community-wide health promotion.

Development and evaluation of a manualised mental health awareness and stigma reduction intervention for Black faith communities: study protocol for the ON TRAC feasibility study

IntroductionThis paper presents the study protocol for a feasibility study of a manualised mental health awareness and stigma reduction intervention for Black faith communities, as part of the Outcomes and...