This is the period of African American church ministry that, from its inception, elaborates on the ministry of the whole person that addresses the sociological situation or lived experience of God's people. The African American church has always responded to these realities from its theological and institutional heritage by providing spiritual nurture, life-giving direction, and support during systemic and social injustice. This book aims to lay out the nature and scope of the church's involvement with this threefold agenda and illustrate its ongoing efficacy as a place, a presence of hope, and a joyful future of justice.

Along with its spiritual dimensions, the African American church has been a psychological haven for those troubled by the intergenerational consequences of racism, poverty, and discrimination; it facilitates group prayer and praise, emotional alleviation from the toxicities of life, and group support – as represented by Psalm 34:18: 'The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.' The word 'near' and the notion of emotional alleviation of pain reflects the church as a psychological haven for those who have encountered broken hearts due to grief, trauma, and extraordinary tribulations of life – and who believe they are not alone in their pain.