The Black Church

The Black Church emerged out of struggle but yet has a history of oppressing its members. For the institution to survive, it must be a place that is welcoming to all.

Growing up steeped in the church, John Legend attributes his faith-oriented upbringing to his successful music career.

Martin Luther King Jr. met Prathia Hall in a mass meeting where she discussed her vision for the world by repeating the phrase “I have a dream.” Dr. King adapted her prayer to one of the famous speeches in American history.

Jennifer Hudson’s first memory of church was on Easter Sunday, where videos of Jesus’ crucifixion brought her to tears. This experience was the moment she finally understood the power of the Church.

In 1997, Kirk Franklin introduced gospel music to the Billboard charts with his song “Stomp.” However, some traditional church leaders accused him of bringing “devil music” into the Church.

As Black Churches became prominent throughout the country, white supremacists began targeting these sacred places of refuge for the Black community.

Jesse Jackson challenged Ronald Reagan in his political campaign, embracing the role of a preacher politician. Although his campaign didn’t succeed, Jackson paved the way for a new generation of leaders in the Church and outside of it.

The Black Church is the place where the African American community made their way in society and one they can always call home.

John Legend showcases his musical talent and deep church roots while singing “So Good To Me.”

From its early origins to today’s Black Lives Matter movement, The Black Church explores the church’s powerful influence as the spiritual, cultural, and political epicenter of the African American community. Hear from iconic musicians such as John Legend, Pastor Shirley Caesar, Kirk Franklin and Yolanda Adams on the powerful role of gospel music within the Black church.

As Black political activism evolves through time, new school activists abandon the institution, but not God.

Host Henry Louis Gates, Jr. discusses the origins of Black church and its continued influence as the spiritual, cultural, and political epicenter of the African American community.