Faith, culture, and inspiration celebrating the African American Christian experience
332 articles
The former Good Shepherd Baptist Church in Richmond, Virginia, burned to the ground on July 5 after a lightning strike ignited the building during a thunderstorm. The Church Hill landmark had deep ties to the city's Civil Rights Movement and the clergy who worked alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
As Black church choirs shrink across the United States, European community choirs are filling concert halls with gospel music and seeking out African American conductors to teach them the tradition. Calvin University choir director Nathan Glasper Jr. traveled to Poland twice this year to work with one such group.
Smaller praise teams are replacing traditional choirs in many Black Protestant churches as attendance declines and fewer young musicians train in choral ministry. Music scholars and choir directors say the shift is real, though the gospel tradition is finding new audiences in colleges and overseas.
The Old Dutch Church in Kingston, New York, partnered with Harambee Kingston and the Pine Street African Burial Ground to host a "Black Fourth of July" event on July 7, 2026. The gathering used music, poetry, and readings to address historical injustices and reflect on unfulfilled promises of liberty.
Black Protestant churches across the United States are seeing their choirs shrink or disappear, replaced by smaller praise teams. Music directors and scholars say the shift reflects declining attendance, changing musical tastes, and the lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Black churches that once served as Underground Railroad stations are taking different approaches to America's 250th anniversary. Mother Bethel AME in Philadelphia joined the festivities, while St. James AME Zion in Ithaca chose to focus on critical reflection instead.
The Old Dutch Church and Harambee in Kingston, New York, hosted a "Black Fourth of July" event on July 7, 2026, bringing together music, poetry, and education to address historical injustices. The gathering drew community members looking for an alternative way to mark the holiday. Organizers said the event was about reclaiming the meaning of freedom for all Americans.
The former Good Shepherd Baptist Church in Richmond, Virginia, burned to the ground on July 5, 2026, in a fire that witnesses linked to a lightning strike. The building had served as a cornerstone of the Church Hill neighborhood and played a key role in Richmond's Civil Rights Movement. The Richmond NAACP called the loss a blow to the community's history.
As the United States marked its 250th anniversary on July 4, 2026, historically Black churches took different approaches to the celebration. Mother Bethel AME Church in Philadelphia joined the festivities, honoring figures like Richard Allen and Harriet Tubman. Other congregations, including St. James AME Zion Church in Ithaca, New York, chose to sit out the celebrations, citing the country's history of racial injustice.
The Old Dutch Church in Kingston, New York, and the organization Harambee hosted a "Black Fourth of July Commemoration" on July 7, 2026, titled "250 Years of America's Voices." The event offered community reflection and historical acknowledgment as the nation marked its 250th anniversary.
Three prominent gospel artists released new music this week. Anthony Brown and group therAPy dropped "Always Be Good," Israel Houghton and The Choir Room released an Andrae Crouch medley, and Pastor Mike Jr. put out "Suddenly." All three tracks are available on major streaming platforms.
Mother Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Philadelphia participated in America's 250th anniversary celebrations, hosting gospel music events and tours that highlight the church's role as an Underground Railroad stop. Senior pastor Rev. Carolyn Cavaness said the church chose to participate to honor Black leaders like Richard Allen, Frederick Douglass, and Harriet Tubman.
Black churches across the country are finding new ways to serve their communities as membership numbers fall. Congregations are hosting farmers markets, establishing local NAACP chapters, providing disaster relief, and leasing commercial space to generate revenue. Church leaders say the mission remains the same even as the landscape shifts.
As the United States marks its 250th anniversary, historic Black churches are taking different approaches to the national celebrations. Mother Bethel AME Church in Philadelphia is welcoming visitors and hosting events to honor Black historical figures, while other congregations, citing racial history and current tensions, have chosen to sit out the festivities entirely.
The former Good Shepherd Baptist Church in Richmond, Virginia, burned to the ground on July 5, 2026, after what witnesses described as a lightning strike during a storm. The Church Hill building was a cornerstone of Richmond's Civil Rights Movement, where the late Rev. Dr. Paul Nichols worked to bridge racial divides and helped rename a city building in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Bishop Julius McAllister of the African Methodist Episcopal Church in Alabama says the Black church has a duty to educate and mobilize voters as redistricting efforts threaten to dilute Black political power. He is calling on congregations to treat civic engagement as a spiritual responsibility.
Leaders from historically Black Protestant churches met at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta on June 30 for a forum called "A Faithful Struggle." The gathering focused on how Black churches can help the nation navigate deep political and cultural divisions.
Black faith leaders across the United States are organizing their congregations as voter registration and education centers ahead of the November midterm elections. Clergy in Washington D.C., Ohio, and nine other states are running poll chaplain programs and petition drives to protect voting access.
The Chicago Gospel Music Festival will return to Millennium Park on July 24 and 25, 2026, for a free two-day event headlined by Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Ricky Dillard and New G, and Hezekiah Walker and the Love Fellowship Choir.
The Junius B. Dotson Institute for Worship and Music in the Black Church held a four-day academy in Dallas in May 2026, drawing clergy and musicians to sessions on worship arts, trauma-informed ministry, and the ethical use of artificial intelligence in church settings.
Faith leaders gathered at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta in late June 2026 to reflect on the Black church's role in American history as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary. The gathering drew pastors, historians, and community organizers from across the country.
As the United States marked its 250th anniversary in July 2026, Black churches took different approaches to the national milestone. Mother Bethel AME in Philadelphia joined the festivities, while other historic congregations chose to sit out, citing the nation's racial history and current political climate.
Fire destroyed the former Good Shepherd Baptist Church in Richmond, Virginia on July 5, 2026. The building, tied to the city's Civil Rights Movement, was engulfed after witnesses reported a lightning strike. The cause remains under investigation.
A fire destroyed the former Good Shepherd Baptist Church in Richmond, Virginia, on July 5, 2026. The building was a Civil Rights-era landmark in the Church Hill neighborhood, where local clergy worked for decades to bridge racial divides.
Many historic Black churches across the United States are losing members at a significant rate. Pastors cite gentrification, younger generations stepping away from organized religion, and changing Sunday habits as key factors.
The National Trust for Historic Preservation announced $13.5 million in grants to 33 historically Black churches in February 2026. The funding supports structural repairs, stained-glass restoration, endowment creation, and interpretive programming at sites across the United States.
The Barna Group released a major research report titled "Trends in the Black Church," drawing on more than 20 years of data. The report covers pastoral pipelines, women in church leadership, gentrification's impact on congregations, and how younger generations are connecting with faith.
Tori Kelly released her sixth studio album, "God Must Really Love Me," on June 12, 2026, via Epic Records. The project blends pop, R&B, and gospel influences, drawing on her experiences of faith, marriage, and becoming a mother.
Several prominent Black church leaders have published books this year focused on the history and future of the Black church in America. The authors say they want to give younger generations a clearer picture of what the institution has done and what it can still do.
The Preserving Black Churches program awarded grants to historic congregations this year, including New Jerusalem Baptist Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The $200,000 grant will help the 70-year-old church maintain its building without cutting community services.
Black church leaders across the country are ramping up voter mobilization efforts after the Supreme Court struck down a key provision of the Voting Rights Act. Congregations are setting up registration drives, transportation networks, and legal support for voters.
Tyscot Records, the oldest African American-owned gospel label in the world, is hosting a homecoming concert in Indianapolis on July 23, 2026. The event marks the label's 50th year in business.
A new wave of Black Christian artists is mixing gospel with Afrobeats, trap, and R&B, drawing younger listeners to faith-based music. Artists like Limoblaze, Lecrae, and Ryan Ofei are leading the shift.
Some historic Black congregations are participating in the nation's 250th anniversary events, while others are sitting them out. The divide reflects different views on how to address America's racial history.
Gospel and Christian music saw an 18.5 percent increase in U.S. on-demand audio streams in 2025, outpacing most other genres. Younger listeners and female audiences are driving the growth, with short-form content on TikTok and Instagram serving as key discovery tools. The 2026 GRAMMY nominees in the Christian and Gospel categories include Kirk Franklin, Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Forrest Frank, and Brandon Lake.
The 2026 ALTER Dementia Summit ran April 23-25 at Impact Church in East Point, Georgia, bringing together healthcare researchers, caregivers, and Black faith leaders to address Alzheimer's and dementia disparities. African Americans are statistically more likely to be diagnosed with dementia than the general population. The summit was sponsored by AARP and the Alzheimer's Association.
Black Christian leaders, led by strategists including Pastor Mike McBride, are organizing voter engagement initiatives ahead of the November 2026 midterm elections. The effort focuses on fostering dialogue within congregations and mobilizing communities around key local and national issues. Organizers say the church remains one of the most effective institutions for reaching Black voters.
Gospel artist CeCe Winans is extending her More Than This tour to international venues in 2026, including a stop in Rotterdam, Netherlands on August 26. The tour, which began with a 17-city U.S. spring leg, features songs from her recent catalog alongside classic hits like Alabaster Box and Goodness of God.
Tasha Cobbs Leonard won the Outstanding Gospel/Christian Album award at the 57th NAACP Image Awards for her debut self-titled album, TASHA. The recognition adds to a career that has made her one of the most celebrated voices in contemporary gospel music.
A Christianity Today analysis published in April 2026 found that Black immigrants, now comprising about one in ten Black people in the U.S., are bringing distinct theological perspectives to American churches. By 2060, an estimated 9.5 million Black immigrants will live in the U.S., reshaping denominations like COGIC and the AME Zion Church.
The Gospel Industry Coalition, established in 2024, is pushing to break down divisions in the Black Christian music industry in 2026. The organization is working alongside artists, labels, and promoters to create shared standards and prevent the industry from operating in isolated silos.
After Germany defeated Curacao 7-1 in a Group E match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Houston on June 14, players from both teams gathered at center field to pray together. The moment went viral, drawing wide attention to the faith of the Curacao squad, the smallest nation ever to qualify for the World Cup.
Barna Group has released updated findings from its Trends in the Black Church study, described as the most detailed research on the subject in more than 20 years. The report covers spiritual identity, leadership transitions, the role of women, and the effects of gentrification on Black congregations.
About one in ten Black people in the United States is now foreign-born, and that population is having a visible effect on the American church. A 2026 Christianity Today report finds that Black immigrant communities are forming vibrant, Bible-centered congregations that are diversifying historically Black denominations.
The National Black Church Initiative has elevated its security threat level to the highest tier after a surge in hate crimes against Black churches, including three arsons in Louisiana within a 10-day period. The organization is advising member churches to increase security measures and coordinate with local law enforcement. The NBCI represents 150,000 churches and 27.7 million members.
Singer-songwriter PJ Morton released a double album called Saturday Night/Sunday Morning, drawing on his upbringing as a preacher's kid to explore the tension between secular and sacred music. Morton says the project reflects a cultural reality that many Black Americans live every day. The album dropped in late June 2026.
Maverick City Music and UPPERROOM took home the ASCAP Gospel Song of the Year award at the 2026 Rhythm and Soul Music Awards for their song Rest On Us. The track was co-written by Brandon Lake and Harvest Grapevine. The ceremony was held in late June in Los Angeles.
Bishop Francine A. Brookins was elected Chair of the African Methodist Episcopal Church's General Board Social Action Commission in January 2026. The election positions her to lead the denomination's advocacy work on civil rights, healthcare, and social justice issues.
Gospel and Christian music artist Terrian has announced a new album titled 'Mad Big World,' set for release in August 2026. The announcement generated significant attention in the Christian music community, where Terrian has built a following for her soulful vocal style.
New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in DeKalb County, Georgia, launched the Black Ground initiative during Juneteenth weekend, unveiling a six-pillar economic empowerment program. The launch included the groundbreaking of New Birth Village, a 304-unit housing development on 33 acres of church-owned land.
CeCe Winans, featuring gospel legend Shirley Caesar, won the Grammy for Best Gospel Performance/Song at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards on February 1, 2026. Their collaboration "Come Jesus Come" took the top honor in a category that also saw Darrel Walls and PJ Morton win Best Gospel Album.
The National Trust for Historic Preservation's African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund announced $8.5 million in grants to 33 historically Black churches in February 2026. The funding, backed by the Lilly Endowment, brings the program's total to nearly $34 million distributed to 170 churches nationwide.
A growing generational gap is reshaping the Black church in America, with Millennials and Gen Z increasingly identifying as spiritual but not religious. Community leaders and pastors are debating how to stay relevant without abandoning core theological commitments.
Stellar Award-nominated gospel artist LaShá Knox released her debut album Testify Vol. 1 on June 5, 2026. The project documents her personal journey through loss and hardship, arriving the same day as CeCe Winans' The Hymns.
Tori Kelly released her album God Must Really Love Me on June 12, 2026, a project that blends gospel, pop, and R&B around themes of grace and spiritual conviction. The album marks a significant faith-forward statement from the Grammy-winning artist.
Gospel legend CeCe Winans released The Hymns on June 5, 2026, a 16-track album of classic worship songs reimagined in her signature style. The project is her most personal recording in years, aimed at introducing foundational hymns to a new generation.
The National Trust for Historic Preservation awarded $8.5 million in grants to 33 Black churches in early 2026, including the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church in Birmingham and Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta. The funds are designated for building restoration to help congregations maintain their role as community anchors.
Three Black churches in St. Landry Parish, Louisiana, were set on fire over a ten-day period in June 2026. Authorities have classified the fires as hate crimes. The National Black Church Initiative raised its threat level for member congregations to "Elevated," advising churches to increase security and coordinate with local law enforcement.
Gospel singer and actress Kierra Sheard was named the recipient of the BMI Impact Award at the 2026 BMI Trailblazers of Gospel Music Awards. The honor recognizes artists who have made a lasting contribution to gospel music and the broader Christian community. Sheard, daughter of gospel legend Karen Clark Sheard, has recorded multiple chart-topping albums.
The 41st annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards will be held on August 15, 2026, at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. John P. Kee and Kim Person each received seven nominations, the most of any artists. Gospel superstar Kirk Franklin will host the ceremony.
Three Black churches in St. Landry Parish, Louisiana, were destroyed by arson over a 10-day period in June 2026. Authorities classified the fires as hate crimes. Greater Union Baptist Church, St. Mary Baptist Church, and Mount Pleasant Baptist Church, all more than 100 years old, were lost.
New research shows Black immigrants are reshaping historically Black denominations in the United States. About one in ten Black Americans was born abroad, and African immigrants are the fastest-growing group within that population. Many bring theologically conservative and mission-focused perspectives to their congregations.
A new Barna Group study on trends in the Black church finds a widening gap between older and younger members. Many younger congregants say the church feels disconnected from their daily lives, while older members see it as a vital anchor of tradition and community.
A new report from Christianity Today finds that Black immigrants from Africa and the Caribbean are playing a growing role in American evangelical churches, bringing new worship styles, theological perspectives, and energy to congregations across the country.
Christian artist Forrest Frank has sold more than 500,000 tickets for his "Jesus Generation Tour," making it one of the best-selling gospel music tours in recent memory. Frank has emerged as a breakout artist in 2026, drawing large crowds of younger listeners.
Thirty-three Black churches, including the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church and Ebenezer Baptist Church, received a share of 8.5 million dollars in preservation grants in early 2026. The funds came from the National Trust for Historic Preservation's African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund. The grants support restoration of buildings that hold deep significance to Black history and the Civil Rights Movement.
Gospel superstar Kirk Franklin will host the 41st annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards on August 15, 2026, at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. John P. Kee and Kim Person lead all nominees with seven nominations each. The ceremony is part of a three-day event called the Stellar Plus Experience.
Three historic Black churches in Louisiana were destroyed by fire within 10 days in June 2026. Authorities identified the attacks as racially motivated arson. Greater Union Baptist Church, St. Mary Baptist Church, and Mount Pleasant Baptist Church were all burned.
Gospel legend Donnie McClurkin has announced that his upcoming album, titled FINALLY, will be his last recording project. The announcement came after a successful reunion concert and marks the close of a decades-long career that shaped contemporary gospel music.
Public theologians and pastors are raising alarms that American society relies on the Black Church to stabilize communities during crises, from gun violence to economic hardship, without providing structural support in return. Church leaders say the expectation is exhausting clergy and straining congregations.
Gospel artist Kierra Sheard will receive the BMI Impact Award at the 2026 BMI Trailblazers of Gospel Music Awards on July 21 in Nashville. The ceremony will also honor the songwriters and publishers behind the year''s 25 most-performed gospel songs.
Gospel artist Kierra Sheard will receive the BMI Impact Award at the 2026 BMI Trailblazers of Gospel Music Awards on July 21 in Nashville. The ceremony, hosted at BMI's Nashville office, will also recognize the top 25 most-performed gospel songs of the past year. Sheard has five number-one albums on the Billboard Top Gospel Albums chart.
Three prominent Black denominational leaders released books in early 2026 examining the history, challenges, and future of the Black Church in America. The titles address youth engagement, women in ministry, and the institution's role as a social justice anchor. The releases coincided with Black History Month and sparked wide discussion about the church's relevance to younger generations.
The National Trust for Historic Preservation awarded $13.5 million to more than 170 Black churches in 2026 through its Preserving Black Churches program. The grants cover structural repairs, organizational capacity building, and endowment creation. New Jerusalem Baptist Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma, received $200,000 to establish an endowment for its 70-year-old building.
Gospel singer Kierra Sheard will receive the BMI Impact Award at the 2026 BMI Trailblazers of Gospel Music Awards, the organization announced on June 16. Sheard, the daughter of gospel legend Karen Clark Sheard, has built a career spanning two decades with multiple Stellar and Grammy nominations. The ceremony recognizes artists who have made lasting contributions to gospel music.
The Choir Room, led by gospel musician Dwan Hill, reached the top spot on gospel radio charts with "Love Never Fails," a collaboration featuring Fred Hammond. The achievement was reported on June 12, 2026. The single marks a milestone for the ensemble, which has been building a following in the contemporary gospel space.
The National Black Church Initiative set a June 15 deadline for member churches to renew their coalition membership, as the organization pushes forward with health advocacy campaigns targeting maternal health and Parkinson's disease. The NBCI represents 150,000 churches and 27.7 million members across the United States. Leaders say the renewal push is part of a broader effort to strengthen the coalition's capacity for community health work.
The African Methodist Episcopal Church is pursuing recovery of $60 million in retirement funds that were mishandled, according to reports from June 2026. The denomination has taken legal and administrative steps to recoup the money on behalf of affected clergy and staff.
The African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund awarded $13.5 million in 2026 to support preservation work at more than 30 historically Black churches. Recipients include the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham and Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta.
Gospel legend Donnie McClurkin announced that his final studio album, titled FINALLY, will be released in the summer of 2026. McClurkin, known for hits like "Stand" and "We Fall Down," said the project marks the close of his recording career.
The National Black Church Initiative, a coalition of 150,000 churches representing 27.7 million members, is working with the American Clinical Health Disparities Commission to recruit more African Americans and Latinos into clinical trials. The partnership has launched a National Clinical Trials Strategic Plan covering 13 health areas, including cancer, diabetes, and Alzheimer's disease.
Kirk Franklin will host the 41st annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards on August 15, 2026, at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. John P. Kee and Kim Person lead the nominations with seven nods each. The event is part of a three-day Stellar Plus Experience running August 12 through 15.
Gospel artist Tauren Wells has partnered with the National Domestic Violence Hotline to support the release of his music video for "Breathe On It." The video tells the story of a child raised in an abusive home who chooses to break the cycle as an adult. Wells is an eleven-time Grammy nominee and three-time GMA Dove Awards host.
The National Black Church Initiative, representing 150,000 churches and 27.7 million members, has launched new health campaigns targeting maternal mortality and Parkinson's disease awareness in Black communities. The organization is also urging member churches to renew their affiliation ahead of a June 15 deadline.
Black faith leaders in the Washington, D.C. area are organizing voter registration drives, mayoral debates, and poll chaplain programs ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Pastors say the Black church has always been a center of civic action.
Three historically Black churches in St. Landry Parish, Louisiana, were destroyed by arson within a 10-day period in June 2026. Authorities say the fires were set by someone motivated by racial hatred. Community leaders and activists have launched fundraising efforts to rebuild.
Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church in Washington, D.C. hosted its 33rd Annual Scholarship Awards Luncheon on June 13, 2026, honoring students who demonstrate financial need and scholastic achievement. Dr. Satira Streeter Corbitt, founder of Ascensions Psychological Services and author of 'Black Genius,' served as keynote speaker. The event is part of the church's Payne-Tanner Memorial Scholarship Endowment.
Black church leaders marched in Selma, Alabama, in May 2026 to protest the Supreme Court's April ruling that weakened the Voting Rights Act. Organizers said the march was meant to draw a direct line between the 1965 Bloody Sunday march and the current fight for ballot access.
Three prominent Black denominational leaders released books in early 2026 examining the history of the Black church, the role of women in ministry, and strategies for engaging younger generations. The authors include the Rev. Boise Kimber, Bishop Teresa Snorton, and the Rev. W. Franklyn Richardson.
Following a Supreme Court decision in April 2026 that weakened the Voting Rights Act, Black church leaders launched a poll chaplain initiative to protect voters at the polls. Faith-based coalitions are also training civil rights attorneys to respond to voter suppression in real time.
CeCe Winans took home the Grammy for Best Gospel Performance at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards in February 2026 for her song featuring Shirley Caesar. She also released a new album, The Hymns, earlier this year.
At the 19th annual Urban Summit in Kansas City, Rev. Jamal-Harrison Bryant urged Black church leaders to expand their work into financial literacy, education, and voter mobilization. The June 6 event drew community leaders ahead of the August primary election.
Enon Music Group is currently on its "I Still Believe" 25-city tour, pairing live gospel performances with community outreach events at each stop. The tour, running through summer 2026, is designed to bring music and ministry directly into local neighborhoods across the country.
Large traditional choirs are disappearing from many Black churches, replaced by smaller praise teams that fit the contemporary worship style favored by non-denominational congregations. The Root reported in June 2026 that the shift, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, is reshaping the sound and culture of Black church worship.
Gospel veteran Fred Hammond is scheduled to appear on NPR's Tiny Desk concert series in June 2026 as part of Black Music Month celebrations. The appearance highlights the enduring influence of gospel music on American culture and the genre's growing crossover recognition.
First African Baptist Church in Savannah, Georgia, one of the oldest Black churches in the United States, received a $500,000 preservation grant to fund structural repairs and restoration work. The church, founded in 1773, has been a landmark of African American religious and cultural history.
Three prominent Black church leaders published books in early 2026 examining the history, challenges, and future of the Black church in America. The works address women in ministry, the legacy of faith through adversity, and strategies for keeping younger generations engaged.
Black churches across the country are taking on a new role as health advocates, working to raise dementia awareness and connect congregants with care resources. The effort comes as research shows Black Americans face significantly higher rates of dementia than white Americans.
Father Robert Boxie III has been appointed Auxiliary Bishop of Washington, D.C., making him the youngest Catholic bishop in the United States. The appointment was announced in 2026 and has drawn attention within both the Catholic and African American communities. Boxie is known for his work in prison ministry and youth outreach.
Black churches across the country are hosting programs to raise awareness about dementia, with recent events drawing hundreds of participants. The initiative targets older Black women, who face higher rates of dementia than other demographic groups. Community health advocates say churches are uniquely positioned to reach this population.
The 19th annual Urban Summit in Kansas City brought together pastors, politicians, and activists on June 6, 2026. Rev. Jamal-Harrison Bryant challenged Black church members to increase civic engagement outside church walls. Speakers urged attendees to vote on Missouri's congressional maps and Amendment 4 in the August primary.
Black faith leaders across the South and Midwest are organizing Souls to the Polls voter mobilization events ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Organizations including the Samuel DeWitt Proctor Conference and Faith Out Loud are leading civic engagement efforts in cities where voting rights and federal policy changes are central concerns for congregants.
The Presbyterian Church USA will consider overtures on racial justice at its 227th General Assembly in late June 2026, including a proposal to create a Special Committee on African American Ecclesiastical Repair. The proposals address historical harms and ongoing disparities experienced by Black members within the denomination.
New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Stonecrest, Georgia, led by Pastor Jamal Bryant, is converting 35 acres of church-owned land into New Birth Village, a development of approximately 390 affordable homes. The project targets Black middle-class families and is designed to increase homeownership and build generational wealth in the Atlanta area.
The National Black Church Initiative released its annual list of the 25 Most Effective Christian Biblical Preachers for 2025-2026. The NBCI, which represents 150,000 churches and 27.7 million members, also set a June 15 deadline for member churches to renew their affiliations.
The First African Baptist Church in Savannah, Georgia, is among 33 churches receiving funding through the African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund's 2026 Preserving Black Churches program. The fund has awarded $13.5 million in total this year to support historically Black religious sites.
A growing number of Black congregations have replaced traditional large-scale choirs with smaller praise teams of six to ten singers. The shift accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic and has continued as churches adapt to streaming culture and the rise of Christian Contemporary Music.
Bishop T.D. Jakes has started the process of handing leadership of The Potter's House megachurch in Dallas to the next generation. The transition marks a significant moment for one of the most prominent Black megachurches in the United States. No specific successor has been publicly named.
The 41st Stellar Gospel Music Awards will be held August 15, 2026, in Charlotte, North Carolina, with Kirk Franklin returning as host. John P. Kee and Kim Person lead all nominees with seven nods each. Tasha Cobbs Leonard and JJ Hairston and Youthful Praise are also among the top nominees.
Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Lafayette, Indiana, celebrated its 180th anniversary in June 2026 with the unveiling of a historical marker. Founded in 1846, the church educated Black children during the mid-19th century and hosted a speech by Frederick Douglass in 1867. The plaque recognizes the congregation's role in the region's civil rights history.
The Michigan-Ontario Council of Bishops endorsed Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson for governor on June 3, 2026. The endorsement came after Benson courted Black faith communities through her Thrive in Michigan tour, which included a Juneteenth Prayer Breakfast and meetings with pastors in Saginaw and Benton Harbor.
The First Church of God in Christ in North Minneapolis is celebrating its centennial this month. Built in 1926 as a synagogue by Eastern European Jewish immigrants, the building was purchased by an African American Pentecostal congregation in 1957. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2024.
Black clergy across the country are raising alarms about theological exhaustion as congregations face mounting pressure to address gun violence, economic instability, and social crises. Pastors say they are expected to serve as counselors, administrators, and moral anchors simultaneously. National organizations are calling for systemic support rather than continued reliance on churches as a social safety net.
The National Trust for Historic Preservation awarded $8.5 million in grants to 33 historic Black churches in 2026, including the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church in Birmingham and Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta. The funds will support structural repairs and preservation work at sites central to African American history.
CeCe Winans took home Best Gospel Performance/Song at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards on February 1, 2026, for her duet with Shirley Caesar. Darrel Walls and PJ Morton won Best Gospel Album for their project "Heart of Mine."
The First Church of God in Christ in north Minneapolis celebrated its centennial on June 2, 2026, in a building originally constructed in 1926 as a Jewish synagogue. The event brought together Black and Jewish community members to honor the shared history of the space.
The National Trust for Historic Preservation awarded $13.5 million in 2026 through its Preserving Black Churches program, supporting 38 congregations across the country. The funding covers capital repairs, organizational capacity, and educational programming.
African and Caribbean immigrants are increasingly diversifying historically Black denominations in the United States, bringing theologically conservative and missional perspectives. Projections show the number of Black immigrants in the U.S. will reach 9.5 million by 2060.
Several prominent Black church leaders published books in early 2026 addressing the history, challenges, and future of the Black church in America. Authors include Rev. W. Franklyn Richardson, Bishop Teresa E. Snorton, and Rev. Boise Kimber.
The Barna Group has released 'Trends in the Black Church,' a report based on a 20-year longitudinal study examining the health, values, and needs of Black Christians and congregations. The report covers pastoral transitions, gentrification, the role of women, and the impact of COVID-19 on Black churches.
Six U.S.-born Black Catholics are scheduled for ordination to the diaconate and priesthood in 2026, the highest number in several years. The men come from New Jersey, Texas, North Carolina, Maryland, Louisiana, and New York, and include a former attorney, a former football coach, and a convert from Baptist traditions.
Baylor University's Black Gospel Music Preservation Project has digitized thousands of vinyl records from the Golden Age of Gospel, covering 1945 to 1975. The 16-year initiative has gained national media coverage in 2026 for its work saving recordings, sermons, and sheet music that might otherwise be lost. The archive is now one of the largest collections of its kind in the United States.
Tyscot Records, the world's oldest operating African American-owned gospel label, won the Grammy Award for Best Gospel Album at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards in February 2026. The album Heart of Mine, a collaboration between Darrel Walls and PJ Morton, took the prize. The Indianapolis-based label is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year with a homecoming concert planned for July.
Christian and gospel music saw an 18.5 percent increase in on-demand audio streams in the United States in 2025, outpacing other major music genres. Jonathan McReynolds released the live album 'Closer,' recorded in Chicago, featuring collaborations with Tasha Cobbs Leonard and Ghana's Team Eternity. Dunsin Oyekan released the 10-track live album 'The Eagle' on April 2, 2026.
Bishop John Ricard, SSJ, died in May 2026 at age 86. A Louisiana-born leader, he served as the first Black Catholic prelate in Florida and was a significant figure in the Josephites. His death has prompted mourning across the Black Catholic community. Fr. Robert Boxie III, a 45-year-old chaplain at Howard University, has been named an Auxiliary Bishop of Washington, set for consecration on July 7, 2026.
After the Supreme Court's April 29, 2026, ruling in Louisiana v. Callais weakened the Voting Rights Act, Black church leaders across the country launched organized voter protection campaigns. Pastors are holding "check your registration" Sundays, training poll chaplains, and partnering with civil rights attorneys to challenge discriminatory voting maps. Faith-based groups like Faiths United to Save Democracy are recruiting church leaders as poll chaplains.
The National Black Church Initiative is working to increase African American and Latino participation in clinical trials, addressing long-standing racial disparities in medical research. The organization is partnering with healthcare institutions to recruit participants from Black congregations across the country. Leaders say the effort is critical because many treatments are tested primarily on white patients, leaving minority communities with less data on how drugs affect them.
Three prominent Black denominational leaders released books in early 2026 addressing the history and future of the Black church. Bishop Teresa E. Snorton's "Roots of Resilience" traces Black history from African traditions to the Black Lives Matter movement. The Rev. W. Franklyn Richardson's "Never Lost" calls for greater youth involvement and technology integration. The Rev. Boise Kimber's "Breaking the Stained-Glass Ceiling" examines women's leadership in the church.
A new report from Christianity Today finds that African and Caribbean immigrants are changing the theological and cultural makeup of historically Black denominations. By 2060, the number of Black immigrants in the US is projected to reach 9.5 million.
Three prominent Black church leaders released books in early 2026 addressing the state of the Black Church. The works cover faith history, women's leadership, and strategies for connecting with younger generations.
The National Trust for Historic Preservation awarded $13.5 million in grants in 2026 to support Black churches facing structural decay and financial strain. Recipients include First African Baptist Church in Savannah, Georgia, and New Jerusalem Baptist Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
A 2026 study from Christianity Today found that Black immigrants from Africa and the Caribbean are joining and diversifying historically Black denominations in the United States. About one in ten Black Americans was born abroad, and their presence is shifting the theological and cultural character of churches like AME Zion and the Church of God in Christ.
The Church of God in Christ held its 76th Women's International Convention in San Antonio, Texas, from May 25 to 29, 2026. The event, led by General Supervisor Mother Barbara McCoo Lewis, drew thousands of delegates for training, worship, and ministry development.
The African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund awarded $13.5 million in 2026 to support 33 historically Black churches through its Preserving Black Churches program. The grants fund structural repairs, endowment building, and programming at churches across the country.
A new study finds that Black immigrants from Africa and the Caribbean are bringing Bible-centered, missional theology into historically Black denominations like COGIC and AME Zion. Researchers project this shift will significantly increase ethnic diversity in these denominations by 2060.
JP Foster, pastor of a predominantly Black church in Inglewood, California, has published "The Gospel and My Black Skin," a book addressing why some Black Americans struggle to reconcile their racial identity with the Christian faith. The book examines the history of slavery, colonialism, and white evangelical politics while arguing that the gospel is liberatory.
A new report from Christianity Today finds that Black immigrants are diversifying American churches at a rapid pace. With more than 5 million Black immigrants now living in the United States, African and Caribbean Christians are bringing new worship traditions and theological perspectives to Black denominations.
Three prominent Black church leaders released books in early 2026 examining the history, challenges, and future of the Black church in America. The works address generational divides, the role of women in ministry, and the church's place in the fight for social justice.
The African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund awarded 13.5 million dollars in grants to 33 historically Black churches in early 2026. The funding supports capital repairs, endowment building, and preservation planning at churches across 17 states.
Three new books by prominent Black church leaders are drawing attention in 2026, each examining the history and future of the Black church in America. The authors include Reverend Boise Kimber, Bishop Teresa Snorton, and Reverend W. Franklyn Richardson. Religion News Service says the books arrive at a moment when the Black church is navigating generational divides and questions about its relevance.
A new report from Christianity Today finds that Black immigrants are diversifying American evangelical congregations at a rapid pace. More than 5 million Black immigrants now live in the United States, with African immigrants being the fastest-growing group. Researchers say these communities are theologically conservative and Bible-centered, and are increasingly taking on leadership roles.
New Jerusalem Baptist Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma, received a $200,000 preservation grant through the National Trust for Historic Preservation's Preserving Black Churches program. The church was founded in 1957 by survivors of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. Pastor Sean Jarrett says the funds will create an endowment so the congregation no longer has to choose between building maintenance and community aid.
JP Foster, pastor of a predominantly Black church in Inglewood, California, published 'The Gospel and My Black Skin' in May 2026. The book addresses why some Black people reject Christianity and traces the faith's African origins. Christianity Today reviewed the work as a compelling but incomplete response to racial wounds in the church.
Three prominent Black denominational leaders published new books in early 2026 examining the Black church's past and future. The books address women in ministry, Black history through faith, and the church's role as a stabilizing force. Authors include the Rev. Boise Kimber, Bishop Teresa Snorton, and the Rev. W. Franklyn Richardson.
Black church leaders across the country are organizing voter protection efforts after the Supreme Court struck down a key provision of the Voting Rights Act on April 29, 2026. The ruling makes it harder to challenge racially discriminatory voting maps without proving intentional discrimination. Faith leaders say the church has faced this before and knows what to do.
The National Black Church Initiative launched a new Parkinson's disease education program in Houston and St. Louis in 2026, targeting African American communities with higher rates of the disease. The initiative also formed the African American Parkinson's Patient's Advocacy Organization to push for better research and care access. NBCI represents 150,000 churches and 27.7 million members.
Three prominent Black church leaders published books in early 2026 addressing the history, challenges, and future of the African American church. The authors include Rev. W. Franklyn Richardson, Bishop Teresa E. Snorton, and Rev. Boise Kimber. Each book takes a different angle on what the Black church must do to remain relevant and strong.
More than 100 women engaged in community work across Britain gathered at Birmingham University for the 'Pride in Place: Women of Faith Conference.' The event focused on the central role of faith communities and women in delivering social change. Organizers said women's contributions to community cohesion are often unrecognized.
A Muslim father in Texas filed a lawsuit alleging that Islamic schools were excluded from the state's new $1 billion private school voucher program. Since applications opened in February, no accredited private Islamic schools have been listed as eligible. The lawsuit argues the exclusion violates the U.S. Constitution.
The Archdiocese of Baltimore proposed a nearly $170 million settlement for clergy abuse victims, with most of the funding expected to come from insurance contributions. The proposal is one of the largest abuse settlements in U.S. Catholic history. Victim advocates said the settlement is a step toward accountability.
Gospel artist Pastor Mike Jr. launched a campaign called PMJ vs AI to address the growing use of artificial intelligence to generate music in the Christian and gospel genres. He says AI-generated gospel music threatens the authenticity and spiritual integrity of the art form. The campaign has drawn attention from other gospel artists and industry leaders.
Black church choirs in Brooklyn, New York, continue to perform every Sunday despite years of declining attendance and the pressures of gentrification in their neighborhoods. The choirs remain a defining sound of Sunday mornings in many Brooklyn communities. Music directors and choir members say the tradition is worth preserving regardless of the challenges.
Nearly 100 faith and voting rights leaders gathered in Selma, Alabama, on May 16, 2026, for the All Roads Lead to the South rally. The march came in response to a Supreme Court ruling that struck down a key provision of the 1965 Voting Rights Act. Participants marched across the Edmund Pettus Bridge toward the Alabama State Capitol in Montgomery.
Black faith leaders in Portland, Oregon, gathered on May 16, 2026, for a Black Community Summit at Portland Community College. The summit, themed "Where do we go from here: Chaos or Community?", brought together clergy, activists, and residents concerned about civil rights. Leaders urged peaceful organizing and civic engagement in response to the national political climate.
CeCe Winans won the Grammy Award for Best Gospel Performance/Song at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards on February 1, 2026. She shared the award with Pastor Shirley Caesar for their collaboration "Come Jesus Come." The win gave Winans her 18th Grammy, tying Aretha Franklin for second among Detroit-area artists.
Nearly 100 faith and voting rights leaders gathered in Selma and Montgomery, Alabama, on May 16, 2026, to protest a Supreme Court ruling that weakened the Voting Rights Act. The Rev. Bernice A. King attended the rally, calling the ruling a shameless assault on Black political power. Marchers crossed the Edmund Pettus Bridge in silence before heading to the Alabama State Capitol.
Evangelical organizations including ACTS 17 and Faith, Work, and Tech are actively engaging tech founders and executives in Silicon Valley, describing a growing "Christ-curious moment" among the region's elite. Churches in San Francisco have seen significant growth, with many congregants working in the tech industry.
Voices of Fire, the gospel choir founded by Pharrell Williams' uncle Bishop Ezekiel Williams, released new singles in May 2026, including "BOUNCE" and "ARMOR" featuring Zacardi Cortez. The releases come as the choir continues to build on its Netflix documentary success and expand its gospel music reach.
Pastor JP Foster of Inglewood, California, released a book titled 'The Gospel and My Black Skin: Confronting the Past, Reclaiming the Future,' which addresses why some Black Americans reject Christianity. Foster examines how scripture was historically misused to justify racism and how Southern evangelicals resisted the Civil Rights Movement. He also highlights the long history of Christianity in Africa before the transatlantic slave trade.
Christian and gospel music saw an 18.5 percent increase in on-demand audio streams in the United States in 2025, outpacing rock, Latin, and most other genres. The growth is driven largely by younger listeners, with 60 percent of the audience being female and 30 percent millennial. Artists like Forrest Frank, Brandon Lake, and Elevation Worship led the surge.
Black church leaders organized a rally and march in Selma and Montgomery, Alabama, on May 16, 2026, to protest a Supreme Court decision that weakened a key provision of the 1965 Voting Rights Act. Organizers expected approximately 5,000 attendees and 75 buses of activists from across the South. The event began with a prayer service at Historic Tabernacle Baptist Church.
A new analysis from the AFRO American Newspapers finds that younger Black Americans are increasingly skeptical of the Black church's relevance, with Generation Z often viewing it as disconnected from their lives. Baby Boomers and Generation X hold more favorable views but still see the institution as struggling. Church leaders are calling for honest self-examination and renewed commitment to community service.
Black immigrants are diversifying African American church denominations at a growing rate, according to a new Christianity Today report. Over 5 million Black immigrants now live in the United States, and many are joining or leading congregations in historically Black denominations such as COGIC and AME Zion. Researchers say the trend will accelerate as the Black immigrant population is projected to reach 9.5 million by 2060.
California pastor JP Foster released 'The Gospel and My Black Skin,' a book that addresses why many Black Americans find it difficult to reconcile their racial identity with the Christian faith. Foster traces the history of Christianity in Africa and examines how slavery and colonialism distorted the faith's presentation to Black communities. The book is drawing attention from urban ministry leaders and scholars.
Gospel artist Jonathan McReynolds released "Closer," an 80s-inspired synth-pop and Afrobeats live album recorded in Chicago, earlier this year. The project features collaborations with Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Jamal Roberts, and Team Eternity Ghana. The album has been widely discussed in gospel music circles since its March 2026 release.
Word In Black, a national Black media brand, is hosting a virtual event on May 21, 2026, titled "Let's Talk Religion Hot Topics." The event will feature religion reporter Rev. Dorothy Boulware in conversation with church leaders. Topics include the viral Druski megachurch video, the rapid growth of Atlanta's 2819 Church, and new preaching styles.
GRAMMY-nominated Christian artist Anne Wilson is adding 25 dates to her 2026 nationwide STARS Tour, extending the run through November. The new leg covers cities on the West Coast, Midwest, and South, with special guests Peter Burton and Aodhán King joining on select dates. Wilson performed the national anthem at NASA's Artemis II launch in April.
Gospel artist Jonathan McReynolds recorded his new album 'Closer' live in Chicago, mixing 80s synth-pop, Afrobeats, and acoustic soul. The project features Tasha Cobbs Leonard and musicians from Team Eternity Ghana.
New Jerusalem Baptist Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma, founded in the aftermath of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, has received a $200,000 grant from the National Trust for Historic Preservation. The funds will establish an endowment to maintain the church's 70-year-old building.
Pastor JP Foster of Inglewood, California, has released 'The Gospel and My Black Skin,' a book addressing why some Black Americans distrust Christianity. Foster traces the faith's African roots and argues that the true gospel is a message of liberation.
Pastor JP Foster of Inglewood, California, has published 'The Gospel and My Black Skin,' a book that addresses how scripture was used to justify racism and why some Black Americans struggle to reconcile their faith with their racial identity.
Black church leaders across the country are organizing emergency meetings and voter registration hubs after the Supreme Court's 6-3 ruling weakened the Voting Rights Act. Denominations including COGIC and the CME Church are mobilizing congregations ahead of midterm elections.
The Museum of Christian and Gospel Music in Nashville opened a special exhibit on May 8 celebrating Amy Grant's new album, The Me That Remains. The exhibit features rare artifacts from Grant's career, including her 1994 Pax Christi Award and the original Western Union telegram announcing her first Grammy nomination.
Pastor JP Foster of Inglewood, California, has written a new book addressing why some Black people reject Christianity because of its historical ties to slavery and colonialism. Christianity Today reviewed the book in May 2026, calling it a serious work of apologetics for Black faith.
Rev. Thomas L. Bowen of the Progressive National Baptist Convention is leading efforts to protect Black voters after the Supreme Court struck down a key provision of the Voting Rights Act. Clergy across the country are setting up voter registration hubs and organizing Souls to the Polls Sundays.
Several historically Black churches, including Sixteenth Street Baptist Church in Birmingham and Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, received preservation grants totaling $8.5 million in February 2026. The funding comes from the National Trust for Historic Preservation's African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund, which has now supported 170 churches with nearly $34 million.
New data from the Pew Research Center shows that 73% of Black Americans identified as Christian in 2024, down from 85% in 2007. The share identifying as religiously unaffiliated rose from 12% to 22% over the same period. Researchers note that most unaffiliated Black adults still believe in God.
Black clergy from multiple denominations held an emergency Zoom meeting on May 8, 2026, to coordinate a response after the Supreme Court issued a ruling that significantly affected the Voting Rights Act. Leaders in Louisiana, Tennessee, and other states announced plans to turn churches into voter registration hubs and reinstate 'Souls to the Polls' Sundays.
Tribute Quartet's song 'And Then' reached number one on the SGN Scoops Top 100 Southern Gospel chart for May 2026. The chart, released by SGN Scoops, tracks the most-played Southern Gospel songs each month. Other top-ten entries include songs from Joseph Habedank, the Gaither Vocal Band, and Karen Peck and New River.
Pastor J.P. Foster of a predominantly Black church in Inglewood, California, has written a new book titled 'The Gospel and My Black Skin: Confronting the Past, Reclaiming the Future.' The book traces the long history of Christianity in Africa and addresses how scripture was misused to justify slavery and racism.
Black pastors and church leaders across the United States launched voter registration campaigns this week after the Supreme Court issued a ruling that weakened the Voting Rights Act. Leaders from the Church of God in Christ, the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, and other denominations announced plans to turn congregations into voter registration hubs.
A new report from the Hartford Institute for Religion Research shows median in-person church attendance rose to 70 adults, up from a COVID-era low of 45. The study surveyed 7,453 congregations between September and December 2025. Researchers say the growth reflects adaptation, not a return to pre-pandemic norms.
Black faith leaders across the country are reviving Civil Rights-era tactics to prepare communities for the 2026 midterm elections. Pastor Mike McBride's Live Free organization is hosting Sunday dinners in multiple cities. The Rev. Traci Blackmon's Faith Out Loud project is active in 15 Southern cities.
Daywind Music Group artists took home 12 awards at the 25th annual Absolutely Gospel Music Awards on May 5 in Columbia, Tennessee. Joseph Habedank won Fan Favorite Artist. Lanny Wolfe received the Cornerstone Award for his decades of impact on gospel music.
Thirty-three Black churches, including the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church in Birmingham and Atlanta's Ebenezer Baptist Church, received $8.5 million in preservation grants on February 25, 2026. The funding comes from the National Trust for Historic Preservation's African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund.
Black Christian leaders are using Sunday dinners, online forums, and community organizing to prepare voters for the 2026 midterm elections. Groups like Live Free and Faith Out Loud are active in cities across the South and Bay Area.
Brandon Lake and Jelly Roll won the Grammy for Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song for "Hard Fought Hallelujah." The song spent 34 weeks at No. 1 on Billboard's Hot Christian Songs chart and crossed over to mainstream audiences.
The 2026 GRAMMY nominees in gospel and Christian music categories were announced in November 2025, with Kirk Franklin, Tasha Cobbs Leonard, and Jonathan McReynolds among the top contenders. The nominations reflect a strong year for gospel music across multiple styles.
Rev. Traci Blackmon's Faith Out Loud project is now active in 15 Southern cities, working to get Black church leaders engaged in community needs outside their buildings. The initiative is also tied to voter mobilization ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
The National Black Church Initiative is asking its member congregations to renew their membership by June 15, 2026. The coalition represents 150,000 African American churches and 27.7 million members across the country.
The Hyssongs released their debut single with Horizon Records on May 1, 2026. The song, 'Good News Savior,' features Richard Hyssong with supporting vocals from his wife Kelly and father Dell, and was produced by Jeff Collins.
The U.S. Supreme Court struck down a key provision of the Voting Rights Act on April 29, 2026, making it harder to challenge racially discriminatory voting maps. Black church leaders responded within hours, announcing plans for voter registration Sundays, early voting transportation, and rapid-response legal coalitions.
Kadesh African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church in Edenton, North Carolina reopened on April 26, 2026, after being closed for 23 years. Hurricane Isabel damaged the historic Black church in 2003, and a $2 million state-backed preservation grant funded the full restoration.
New Jerusalem Baptist Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma, received a $200,000 grant from the Preserving Black Churches program in March 2026. The church, founded after the 1921 Tulsa race massacre, will use the funds to establish an endowment for building preservation.
A new Christianity Today report traces how Black immigrants from Africa, the Caribbean, and Latin America are reshaping congregations across the United States. African immigrants are the fastest-growing Black immigrant group and tend to be theologically conservative, Bible-centered, and focused on evangelism.
The Samuel DeWitt Proctor Conference held a 'Sacred Strategy' session on voter mobilization at its February 2026 annual meeting, drawing more than 600 pastors, seminarians, and community participants. The organization is now developing a civic literacy curriculum called 'Moving the Needle' for congregations.
A Black megachurch in Virginia donated more than $1 million to prevent the eviction of over 300 families from local public housing. The donation came as residents faced displacement due to funding shortfalls. Church leaders said the gift reflects their commitment to keeping families in their homes.
New Jerusalem Baptist Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma, received a $200,000 grant from the Preserving Black Churches program to create an endowment for its 70-year-old building. The church was founded in 1957 in the aftermath of the Tulsa Race Massacre. Pastor Sean Jarrett says the funding helps the congregation avoid choosing between community programs and building maintenance.
New Jerusalem Baptist Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma, received a $200,000 grant from the Preserving Black Churches program to create an endowment fund for its 70-year-old building. The church was founded in 1957 by survivors and descendants of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. Pastor Sean Jarrett says the grant means the church no longer has to choose between community needs and building maintenance.
Several Black Christian leaders are organizing voter mobilization efforts ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, drawing on strategies from the Civil Rights Movement. Pastor Mike McBride is hosting Sunday dinners in 10 cities to unite congregations. The Rev. Traci Blackmon's Faith Out Loud project is working in 15 Southern cities to push churches into direct community action.
Gospel choirs at historically Black churches in Brooklyn are holding on even as attendance has dropped and neighborhoods have changed. At Concord Baptist Church of Christ, the choir has shrunk from 100 voices in 2006 to about 30 today. Choir directors and longtime members say the music remains central to Black church identity.
African immigrants are the fastest-growing Black immigrant group in the United States, and they are reshaping congregations across the country. Christianity Today reports that these communities tend to be theologically conservative, Bible-centered, and focused on missions.
The National Black Church Initiative, which represents 150,000 African American churches and 27.7 million members, launched a "Vaccines are Good for America" social media campaign on April 19. The coalition is also expanding its Parkinson's disease education program to Houston and St. Louis.
Black Catholics make up about 2.8 million people in the United States, or roughly 5 percent of all U.S. adult Catholics. A new report shows this group attends weekly Mass at a higher rate than the broader Catholic population, with Millennials making up 43 percent of Black Catholics.
Our Lady of Consolation Catholic Church in Charlotte, North Carolina, is set to receive a major renovation after years of deterioration. The Catholic Diocese of Charlotte has committed at least $4 million to the project, with the total estimated cost exceeding $6.7 million. The church, founded in 1955, is Charlotte's only Black Catholic parish.
Gospel artist Jonathan McReynolds dropped a new live album in April 2026, recorded in his hometown of Chicago. The 13-track project blends gospel with 80s-inspired synth-pop, Afrobeats, and acoustic soul. It features collaborations with Tasha Cobbs Leonard and American Idol winner Jamal Roberts.
A new Christianity Today report finds that over five million Black immigrants now live in the United States, and many are joining or forming their own congregations within traditional Black church denominations. Researchers say this shift is reshaping worship styles, theology, and church leadership.
The Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor hosted a Black Church Crawl on April 18 in Brunswick and New Hanover counties, North Carolina. The tour visited historic churches including Reaves Chapel and St. Stephen AME, highlighting their role as centers of faith and community resistance.
Big Bethel AME Church in Atlanta held an Environmental Justice Sunday on April 26, spotlighting health disparities in Black neighborhoods caused by pollution, flooding, and extreme heat. Speakers called for stronger public health investment and environmental protections.
The Texas Gospel Music Show makes its debut April 30 through May 2, 2026, at the E-Sports Arena in Arlington, Texas. The event features Ernie Haase and Signature Sound, Greater Vision, and four other acts.
Jazz legend Ron Carter and gospel choir director Ricky Dillard released "Sweet, Sweet Spirit" in early 2026, reimagining classic hymns with jazz bass lines and a soaring choir. The album was released through Blue Note Records and Motown Gospel.
Rev. William Barber issued a public call in April 2026 for Black churches to mobilize voters ahead of the midterm elections. Barber warned that voting rights are under threat and said the church cannot stay silent.
A new Christianity Today report published April 17, 2026, examines how Black immigrants are diversifying African American churches. Over 5 million Black immigrants now live in the United States, with African immigrants being the fastest-growing group. Their theologically conservative, Bible-centered congregations are expected to bring more ethnic diversity to denominations like COGIC and AME Zion.
Black church leaders in Minneapolis are calling for state and national laws to restrict federal agents from wearing masks during immigration enforcement operations. The push follows the killing of Renee Good by an ICE agent. The Rev. Boise Kimber of the National Baptist Convention U.S.A. is among the leaders demanding accountability.
Gospel music is seeing a wave of major releases in 2026. Jonathan McReynolds dropped his live album 'Closer' in March, blending Afrobeats, 80s synth-pop, and acoustic soul. Nigerian worship artist Dunsin Oyekan released a 10-track live album on April 2, described as the most significant Nigerian worship release of the year.
The 4th Annual Black Men's Wellness Day at Community Faith Church in Houston on April 25 offered free glucose, BMI, and hypertension screenings alongside one-on-one conversations with African American physicians and mental health resources.
Congresswomen Nikema Williams and Yvette Clarke introduced legislation to provide $50 million to Black churches and faith-based organizations to expand access to culturally appropriate healthcare in underserved communities.
The National Black Church Initiative, a coalition of 150,000 African American churches representing 27.7 million members, launched the African American Parkinson's Patient's Advocacy Organization on April 9, 2026, and kicked off a "Vaccines are Good for America" social media campaign on April 19. The NBCI is also addressing Black maternal health through its Black Beautiful Babies Campaign proposal.
A new report from Christianity Today finds that Black immigrants are increasingly joining and leading congregations within American evangelicalism and traditional Black church denominations. About one in ten Black people in the U.S. were born abroad, and African immigrants, the fastest-growing Black immigrant group, are highly religious and tend to form theologically conservative, Bible-centered communities.
Alfred Street Baptist Church in Alexandria, Virginia, donated more than $1 million in April 2026 to cover back rent for 338 families facing eviction from public housing. The funds were raised through the church's annual SEEK fasting and prayer period. Pastor Howard-John Wesley announced the gift on Easter Sunday.
Absolutely Gospel Music released its Top 40 chart for April 2026, featuring new singles from DJ Allen and Righteous, The Fosters, and artists from Apple Music's New Gospel 2026 playlist. The Hyssongs also signed with Horizon Records this month.
The National Black Church Initiative, a coalition of 150,000 African American churches, launched a new Parkinson's patient advocacy organization in April 2026. The group also kicked off a social media campaign promoting vaccines and announced a new YouTube series on marriage.
Black Christian leaders are organizing Sunday dinners, Zoom calls, and field campaigns to mobilize voters before the 2026 midterm elections. Pastor Mike McBride and Rev. Traci Blackmon are among those leading the effort, drawing on strategies from the Civil Rights Movement.
The DOJ's move to place medical marijuana in Schedule III on April 23 could cut effective federal tax rates for qualifying cannabis businesses from 80 percent to around 25 percent, offering relief to Black entrepreneurs in the industry.
The National Black Church Initiative launched the African American Parkinson's Patient's Advocacy Organization on April 9 and kicked off a "Vaccines are Good for America" social media campaign on April 19. The coalition of 150,000 churches is also running a "Parkinson Brain Health" campaign starting April 25. The NBCI works to address racial disparities in healthcare across its 27.7 million members.
A Christianity Today article published April 17 found that Black immigrants are diversifying American churches at a growing rate. About one in ten Black people in the U.S. were born abroad, and African immigrants are the fastest-growing Black immigrant group. These communities tend to form theologically conservative, Bible-centered congregations.
Several Black Christian leaders are organizing grassroots voter mobilization campaigns ahead of the November 2026 midterm elections, drawing on strategies from the Civil Rights Movement. Pastor Mike McBride is hosting Sunday dinners in 10 cities to unite congregations. The Rev. Traci Blackmon's Faith Out Loud project is working in 15 Southern cities to move churches from belief to action.
CeCe Winans featuring Shirley Caesar won Best Gospel Performance/Song at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards on February 1, 2026, for 'Come Jesus Come.' Darrel Walls and PJ Morton took home Best Gospel Album for 'Heart of Mine,' while Israel and New Breed won Best Contemporary Christian Music Album.
A new Christianity Today article traces how Black immigrants, from Caribbean Baptists to African Pentecostals, have shaped American Christianity for centuries and are now diversifying major Black church denominations. By 2060, an estimated 9.5 million Black immigrants will live in the U.S., bringing distinct theological traditions to churches like COGIC and AME Zion.
Pastor Mike McBride and several Black Christian leaders are organizing Sunday dinners and online forums to mobilize voters before the 2026 midterm elections. The effort draws on Civil Rights Movement strategies and focuses on issues including immigration enforcement, voting rights, and community solidarity.
The National Black Church Initiative launched two new health campaigns in April 2026: a social media push called 'Vaccines Are Good for America' and the African American Parkinson's Patient Advocacy Organization. The coalition represents 150,000 Black churches and 27.7 million members.
CeCe Winans and Shirley Caesar won the Grammy Award for Best Gospel Performance/Song at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards on February 1, 2026. Their collaboration on 'Come Jesus Come' beat out four other nominees, including entries from Kirk Franklin and Jonathan McReynolds.
Rev. William Barber issued a public call to Black churches across the country to mobilize voters ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Barber warned that voting rights are under threat and said the church has a moral obligation to respond.
A new Christianity Today report finds that Black immigrants are diversifying traditional African American denominations, with projections showing 9.5 million Black immigrants in the U.S. by 2060, many bringing theologically conservative and Bible-centered faith traditions.
The National Black Church Initiative launched a new marriage video series called 'Keep Your Wife on Your Team' and announced an upcoming Art and Theatre guide covering Black theatrical performances, as part of its April 2026 programming.
A historic predominantly African American megachurch in Virginia donated more than $1 million to prevent evictions for over 300 families living in public housing, providing direct financial relief to residents facing displacement.
The National Black Church Initiative launched the African American Parkinson's Patients Advocacy Organization on April 9, 2026. The group aims to provide education, support, and clinical trial access to Black patients and families affected by Parkinson's disease.
Black Christian leaders launched new voter mobilization efforts in April 2026, drawing on Civil Rights Movement strategies. Initiatives include Sunday dinners in 10 cities, online bridge-building talks, and a 15-city Southern outreach project.
Southern gospel family group The Hyssongs signed with Horizon Records on April 8, 2026, with a debut single for the label set for release in May. The signing was announced alongside news of the group's first project under the new label.
Black Christian leaders across the country are organizing voter mobilization campaigns ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, drawing on strategies from the Civil Rights Movement. Initiatives include community dinners, online dialogue sessions, and a new curriculum for pastors on civic literacy.
More than 5 million Black immigrants now live in the United States, and their presence is changing the makeup of American Christianity. African immigrants are the fastest-growing group, and researchers say their theologically conservative, Bible-centered faith is challenging popular ideas about American evangelicalism.
The National Black Church Initiative, a coalition of 150,000 African American churches, launched a new Parkinson's Disease educational program in Houston and St. Louis this month. The initiative also created the African American Parkinson's Patient Advocacy Organization to address health disparities in the Black community.
The Beth Emmanuel British Methodist Episcopal Church in London, Ontario, one of Canada's oldest Black churches, may lose its heritage designation after its owner applied to repeal it. The church, built between 1868 and 1871, served as a gathering place for people who escaped slavery via the Underground Railroad.
Black pastors and faith leaders across the country are organizing Sunday dinners and community sessions to prepare congregations for the 2026 midterm elections. The effort draws on strategies from the Civil Rights Movement to address issues including immigration enforcement and voting rights.
The Gospel Music Association held a special Easter Celebration livestream on April 1, 2026, at the Museum of the Bible in Washington, D.C. Artists including Brooke Ligertwood, KB, and Passion performed live. The event was available for streaming throughout Holy Week on gospelmusic.org.
The African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund awarded $13.5 million in preservation grants to historically Black churches in 2026. The funding went to 38 churches across the country for structural repairs, stained-glass restoration, and endowment building. Sixteenth Street Baptist Church in Birmingham and Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta are among the recipients.
The National Black Church Initiative launched a social media campaign on April 19, 2026, called Vaccines Are Good for America, aimed at addressing immunization confusion in Black communities. The initiative is part of NBCI's broader effort to reduce racial health disparities.
Author Kristin T. Lee, whose new book explores her journey as an immigrant daughter navigating American Christianity, praised Black Christians for their authentic faith and willingness to critique the church. She spoke on a Presbyterian Church podcast in April 2026.
The 2026 Public Theology and Public Policy Conference at Yale brought together Black clergy, scholars, and activists from April 12 to 14 to develop voter mobilization strategies for the midterm elections. Rev. William Barber called on the Black Church to reclaim its prophetic voice and engage in targeted organizing.
Salem Baptist Church of Chicago co-hosted "Spend in the Black" on April 4, 2026, a faith-driven economic initiative aimed at directing consumer spending toward Black-owned businesses. The event featured a large-scale vendor marketplace where hundreds of thousands of dollars circulated in a single day.
Gospel artist Joy Holden released the official music video for "Victory Once More" on April 10, 2026. The release follows two Top 10 award nominations for her 2025 album "Surrounded."
Southern Gospel family group The Hyssongs signed with Horizon Records on April 8, 2026. Their debut single for the label, "Good News Savior," is scheduled for release on May 1, 2026, as the group marks 30 years in music ministry.
The African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund awarded 13.5 million dollars in grants in 2026 to 38 historically Black churches through its Preserving Black Churches program. The funding supports capital projects, endowment building, and programming. The grants recognize these churches as anchors of Black faith, culture, and community.
The Black 14 Philanthropy, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and the College Football Hall of Fame donated 36,000 pounds of food to the Atlanta Community Food Bank on April 7, 2026. The donation brings the Black 14's total to 1.75 million pounds since 2020. Atlanta's food bank is now serving 70 percent more people than four years ago due to inflation.
Black Christian leaders across the country are organizing grassroots voter mobilization efforts ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Pastor Mike McBride's Live Free nonprofit is hosting Sunday dinners in 10 cities to discuss political concerns, while the Rev. Traci Blackmon's Faith Out Loud project is active in 15 Southern cities. Leaders say the work continues the tradition of the Civil Rights Movement.
The Gospel Music Association held its GMA Easter Celebration livestream on April 1, 2026, featuring performances by Brooke Ligertwood, Benjamin William Hastings, KB, and Passion. The event was filmed at the World Stage Theater at the Museum of the Bible in Washington, D.C., and streamed exclusively on gospelmusic.org.
The Elevate Conference, the UK's premier gathering for Christian and gospel music professionals, is scheduled for April 23, 2026, at King's House in London. The full-day event will include keynotes, panels, and networking for artists, executives, and producers, with free tickets available for industry professionals under 30.
Black Christian leaders across the country are organizing community dinners, voter registration drives, and online forums to mobilize voters ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Pastors and faith organizers say they are drawing directly from strategies used during the Civil Rights Movement to build civic power in their congregations.
Baylor University's Black Gospel Music Preservation Program has digitized thousands of vinyl records from the Golden Age of Gospel (1945-1975), building an archive that researchers and the public can access online. The program, now in its 16th year, has partnered with the Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture.
First African Baptist Church in New Orleans, founded in 1826 and recognized as Louisiana's first Black church, is facing city liens and $4,000 in fines due to neglect. Pastor William Brent is organizing community cleanups and fundraising to save the historic building.
The Black Health Matters Foundation launched its Our Health Our Wellness national campaign in April 2026, targeting health disparities in underserved communities. The campaign covers Alzheimer's, cancer, heart health, mental health, and vaccinations, with resources available in English and Spanish.
CeCe Winans took home the Grammy for Best Gospel Performance/Song at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards on February 1, 2026, for her track featuring Shirley Caesar. Brandon Lake won Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song for his collaboration with Jelly Roll.
The National Black Church Initiative, representing 150,000 African American churches and 27.7 million members, has announced its list of the 25 Most Effective Christian Biblical Preachers of 2025-2026 in the Black Preaching Tradition. The announcement is part of a broader slate of health, civic, and community initiatives planned for April 2026.
The African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund has awarded 13.5 million dollars in grants to historically Black churches across the United States through its Preserving Black Churches program. The funding supports capital projects, endowments, and programming at sacred sites that anchor Black faith, culture, democracy, and community.
Black Christian leaders across the United States are launching grassroots initiatives to mobilize voters ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, drawing inspiration from the Civil Rights Movement. Through Sunday dinners, online forums, and community organizing, faith leaders are building bridges and strengthening democratic participation in their communities.
The Gospel Music Association (GMA) presented a special Easter livestream event on April 1, 2026, featuring performances from Brooke Ligertwood, Benjamin William Hastings, KB, and Passion. Filmed at the Museum of the Bible in Washington D.C., the celebration honored the Easter story and the message of hope. The event was available exclusively on gospelmusic.org/easter throughout Holy Week.
On April 7, 2026, the Black 14 Philanthropy, in collaboration with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and the College Football Hall of Fame, donated 36,000 pounds of food to the Atlanta Community Food Bank. This brings the Black 14's total to 1.75 million pounds of food donated since 2020. The donation will support 700 partner agencies serving 29 counties in the Atlanta area.
A new analysis published April 3, 2026 examines the Black church's century-old foundations of property ownership, financial independence, and prophetic theology that fueled the civil rights movement. Despite facing challenges including theological drift and institutional decline, the Black church retains moral authority and spiritual connection. Scholars and community leaders argue it is uniquely positioned to again catalyze significant social change.
Grammy-nominated Bethel Music is launching the first leg of its 2026 U.S. Tour beginning April 19 in Seattle, with additional stops in Los Angeles and Dallas. Meanwhile, the gospel music charts are seeing fresh entries, with Jonathan McReynolds' 'Closer' featuring Tasha Cobbs Leonard climbing the BGospel Top 50. Nigerian worship leader Sinach also released her new single 'Eyes of Love' in April 2026.
The National Black Church Initiative (NBCI) launched the African American Parkinson's Patient Advocacy Organization (AAPPAO) in Houston and St. Louis on April 9, 2026. The new organization aims to address the disproportionate impact of Parkinson's disease on African Americans and improve access to clinical trials and treatment. NBCI also announced upcoming health campaigns targeting vaccines and brain health awareness.
The African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund awarded $13.5 million in grants to 38 historically Black churches across the United States in 2026. Recipients include iconic institutions such as 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, and New Jerusalem Baptist Church in Tulsa. The grants support capital improvements, endowment building, and preservation of these vital community anchors.
Grammy-nominated and Dove Award-winning Bethel Music has announced a major US tour for 2026, with the first leg beginning in April and a second leg in October. The tour promises an immersive worship experience featuring beloved anthems and songs from their latest album 'We Must Respond.'
Detroit PBS's American Black Journal series features local pastors discussing the psychological and emotional challenges facing their congregations in 2026, including stress from federal policy changes. Church leaders are emphasizing empowerment, bold faith, and Jesus' message of love and freedom as anchors for their communities.
The National Black Church Initiative is launching a major social media campaign on April 19, 2026, aimed at clarifying confusion about vaccines within the African American community. The initiative is part of NBCI's broader 'Our Health Our Wellness' effort to eradicate racial health disparities across its network of 150,000 churches.
The National Black Church Initiative (NBCI), representing 150,000 African-American churches and 27.7 million members, has launched a new Parkinson''s Disease educational initiative and the African American Parkinson Patient Advocacy Association. The coalition is also running a ''Vaccines are Good for America'' social media campaign and a pilot Heart First Program in Miami and Charlotte.
The 68th Annual GRAMMY Awards honored gospel and Christian music with CeCe Winans featuring Shirley Caesar winning Best Gospel Performance/Song for ''Come Jesus Come.'' Darrel Walls and PJ Morton took Best Gospel Album for ''Heart of Mine,'' while Brandon Lake with Jelly Roll won Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance for ''Hard Fought Hallelujah.''
The African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund has awarded $8.5 million in grants to 33 historically Black churches in 2026, bringing the total investment to $13.5 million for the year. Recipients include iconic institutions like Sixteenth Street Baptist Church in Birmingham and Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, with funds supporting structural restoration, stained-glass preservation, and long-term sustainability.
The African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund, a division of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, awarded $13.5 million in grants in 2026 to support the preservation of historically Black churches across the United States. The funding supports capital projects, endowment building, and organizational capacity for 38 churches, including Sixteenth Street Baptist Church in Birmingham and Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta. The National Black Church Initiative is also launching new health and educational programs for its 27.7 million members.
The Gospel Music Association hosted a special Easter Celebration livestream on April 1, 2026, featuring performances from Brooke Ligertwood, Benjamin William Hastings, KB, and Passion at the Museum of the Bible in Washington D.C. The event, available throughout Holy Week on gospelmusic.org, honored the Easter story and the hope found in the risen Savior. Bethel Music also announced their 2026 U.S. Tour kicking off in April.
The Black church continues to hold significant potential for American society in 2026, drawing on its historic role in the civil rights movement and its deep roots in community building. Scholars and pastors are calling for a renewal of the church's foundational strengths in self-reliance, theological conviction, and community cohesion. Chicago's Olivet Baptist Church is leading the way with a $157 million development project to provide affordable housing and workforce development.
The 68th Annual GRAMMY Awards celebrated outstanding achievements in gospel and Christian music, with CeCe Winans, Kirk Franklin, Tasha Cobbs Leonard, and Israel & New Breed among the top winners. The 14th Annual We Love Christian Music Awards also recognized Jamie MacDonald and Lauren Daigle as standout artists of the year. Bethel Music announced a major U.S. Tour for 2026, bringing worship experiences to cities across the country.
The African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund has awarded $13.5 million in 2026 to preserve 38 historically Black churches across the United States. Recipients include iconic institutions such as Sixteenth Street Baptist Church in Birmingham and Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, where Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. Was baptized. The grants support structural preservation, stained-glass restoration, and educational programming.
Chicago's Olivet Baptist Church, founded in 1850, served as a critical anchor for Black migrants fleeing Jim Crow during the Great Migration, providing housing, childcare, and social services. At its peak, the church boasted over 10,000 members and was considered the largest Protestant church in the world. Today, Pastor John L. Smith is working to reclaim the church's community-minded legacy through a $157 million development called Trinity Square.
The National Black Church Initiative (NBCI) has launched a new educational Parkinson's Disease initiative in Houston and St. Louis, along with the African American Parkinson Patient Advocacy Association. The program aims to address the significant health disparities faced by African Americans with Parkinson's disease, using the trusted networks of Black churches to reach underserved communities. NBCI's coalition of 150,000 churches is mobilizing to provide education, resources, and advocacy for those affected.
The 14th Annual We Love Christian Music Awards celebrated the best in gospel and Christian music, with Jamie MacDonald taking home three awards and Lauren Daigle winning two. The fan-voted ceremony highlighted the growing diversity and vitality of Christian music, with artists spanning gospel, worship, country, and hip-hop genres. The event underscored the deep connection between faith communities and contemporary Christian music.
The African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund has awarded $13.5 million in grants to 33 historically Black churches across the United States, marking the largest single-year investment in the preservation of these sacred spaces. The funding will support capital projects, endowment building, and organizational capacity for churches that have served as anchors of Black faith, culture, and community for generations. Notable recipients include Sixteenth Street Baptist Church in Birmingham and Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta.
The National Black Church Initiative launched the African American Parkinson Patient Advocacy Association on April 1, 2026, as part of its broader health equity mission. The coalition of 150,000 African American churches is also running social media campaigns on vaccines and brain health to address racial disparities in healthcare.
The 14th Annual We Love Christian Music Awards announced its 2026 winners on March 23, with Jamie MacDonald leading with three wins and Lauren Daigle securing two. The event made history with the first-ever tie for Song of the Year, shared by Zach Williams and Jamie MacDonald.
The African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund awarded $13.5 million in grants to 33 historically Black churches in 2026, protecting sacred spaces vital to Black faith, culture, and community. The funding supports capital projects, endowments, and programming at churches with deep historical significance.
The 14th Annual We Love Christian Music Awards announced its 2026 winners on March 23, with Jamie MacDonald leading all artists with three wins including a historic tie for Song of the Year. Lauren Daigle took two awards, while Jelly Roll won the Mainstream Impact Award for his gospel-infused collaboration 'Hard Fought Hallelujah.'
New Jerusalem Baptist Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma, founded in 1957 in the aftermath of the Tulsa race massacre, has received a $200,000 grant from the Preserving Black Churches program. The grant will be matched with an additional $200,000 raised by the church to create an endowment for preserving its 70-year-old building.
Despite comprising 66 to 88 percent of Black church congregations, Black women hold fewer than one in ten senior leadership positions in Black Protestant churches. A new report examines the persistent barriers of tradition and bias that keep women from the pulpit, even as 86 percent of Black Americans say women should be allowed to serve as senior religious leaders.
SEU Worship, the worship collective from Southeastern University, will embark on their first-ever headlining tour in June 2026. The 12-date tour brings their signature worship sound and theologically rich songwriting to communities across the country.
Gospel music serves as a significant cultural outlet for the Black community, telling stories of overcoming and resilience. Allen Temple Baptist Church in Oakland maintains a vibrant 70-member gospel choir, with music remaining central to the Black American experience.
The 14th Annual We Love Christian Music Awards celebrated fan favorites with Jamie MacDonald emerging as the night's most awarded artist. The ceremony featured historic moments including the first-ever tie for Song of the Year.
SEU Worship, the collective from Southeastern University, will embark on their first-ever headlining tour this June, bringing Spirit-led worship to 12 cities nationwide.
The National Black Church Initiative has released its list of the 25 Most Effective Christian Biblical Preachers in the Black Preaching Tradition, celebrating excellence in ministry and biblical teaching.
The 14th Annual We Love Christian Music Awards saw Jamie MacDonald win three awards and Lauren Daigle take two, with a historic tie for Song of the Year.
The NBCI, representing 150,000 African-American churches and 27.7 million members, continues its mission to eradicate racial disparities in healthcare, technology, education, housing, and the environment.
A deep examination of how different generations view the Black Church, from Baby Boomers who see lost traditions to Gen Z who often view it as irrelevant, calling for introspection and renewal.
The National Baptist Memorial Church in Washington, D.C., is undergoing a major restoration effort to save it from the fate of aging churches that have been shuttered or repurposed.
SEU Worship, the collective from Southeastern University, will embark on its inaugural headlining tour in June, offering Spirit-led worship experiences across the United States.
A new survey reveals that nearly two-thirds of women over 50 in the Black community struggle with mental health, while younger generations increasingly view the Black Church as disconnected from their lives.
Different generations hold varying views on the Black Church's relevance, from Baby Boomers who feel it has lost its way to Gen Z who see it as irrelevant.
Oakland's historic Black churches maintain strong gospel choirs that preserve cultural identity and tell stories of resilience and overcoming through music.
John Perkins, influential civil rights leader and Bible teacher who advocated for racial reconciliation through the gospel, has passed away at age 95.
CeCe Winans, Brandon Lake, Israel & New Breed, and The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir were among the winners at the 68th Annual GRAMMY Awards in Christian and Gospel categories.
Different generations have varying perspectives on the Black Church's relevance today. From Baby Boomers to Gen Z, each generation sees the institution through a different lens.
Shiloh Baptist Church in Alexandria, Virginia, founded in 1863 by formerly enslaved African Americans, was awarded $360,000 to preserve its structural integrity and enhance its worship space.
The 14th Annual We Love Christian Music Awards revealed its winners in a special broadcast on March 22, 2026, celebrating fan-driven recognition of Christian music artists.
Shiloh Baptist Church in Alexandria, Virginia, founded in 1863 by formerly enslaved African Americans, received a $360,000 grant to preserve its structural integrity.
The 14th Annual We Love Christian Music Awards announced its winners on March 22, 2026, celebrating the songs and artists that have defined Christian music.
Shiloh Baptist Church in Alexandria, Virginia, founded in 1863 by formerly enslaved African Americans, received a major grant to preserve its historic worship space.
The 25th Annual Gospel Music Expo is scheduled to take place at the Family Life Center/Trinity Friends Church in Van Wert on March 20-22, featuring gospel groups and soloists from several states.
The 14th Annual We Love Christian Music Awards announced its winners across 13 categories, celebrating the songs and artists that defined the past year in Christian music through fan-driven voting.
Shiloh Baptist Church, a historically Black church in Alexandria, Va., was awarded $360,000 through the African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund's Preserving Black Churches program to enhance worship spaces and preserve structural integrity.
Allen Temple Baptist Church's 70-member gospel choir continues a century-old tradition of sharing stories of resilience and faith through music, connecting generations to their spiritual heritage.
Different generations within the Black community hold varying views on the Black Church's role, from Baby Boomers seeing it as straying from roots to Gen Z considering it irrelevant, prompting calls for renewal.
The Official Charts Company has launched the UK first Christian and Gospel Singles Chart, highlighting the increasing popularity and influence of faith-inspired music in the United Kingdom.
Shiloh Baptist Church in Alexandria, Virginia, founded in 1863 by formerly enslaved African Americans, received a $360,000 grant from the African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund Preserving Black Churches program to enhance its worship space and preserve its structural integrity.
Charlotte, North Carolina will host the Stellar Gospel Music Awards from August 12-15, 2026, with $995,000 in state funding supporting the event.
The 68th Annual GRAMMY Awards recognized outstanding achievements in Christian and Gospel music on February 1, 2026. Winners included CeCe Winans, Brandon Lake, Darrel Walls, and Israel & New Breed.
The National Trust for Historic Preservation awarded $13.5 million to 38 historically Black churches across the United States through its Preserving Black Churches program.
The Stellar Awards, one of gospel music's most prestigious events, will relocate to Charlotte, NC for 2026. The move marks a new chapter for the awards show celebrating excellence in gospel and Christian music.
Among Black Americans, discussions about the Black Church reveal a generational divide in how its relevance is perceived. From Baby Boomers to Gen Z, each generation has different views on the institution's status and future.
The Family Life Center/Trinity Friends Church in Van Wert will host the 25th Annual Gospel Music Expo on March 20-22, featuring gospel groups and soloists from multiple states.
Shiloh Baptist Church in Alexandria, Virginia, and Mt. Moriah AME Church in Annapolis, Maryland, received significant grants from the African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund to preserve their historic structures.
Understanding the unique worship experiences in African American churches and how they strengthen faith, community bonds, and spiritual growth.
Practical wisdom and biblical principles for African American Christian families navigating modern challenges while keeping faith at the center.
Meet the pastors, ministers, and community leaders who are continuing the legacy of faith and social justice in communities across America.
How gospel music has evolved from spirituals to modern praise, keeping African American Christian traditions alive and inspiring millions worldwide.
Exploring the profound impact of the Black church on African American culture, civil rights, and spiritual life throughout American history.
