Date of Award

2-12-2025

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Ministry (DMin)

Department

Seminary

First Advisor

Stuart Cocanougher, DMin

Second Advisor

Gregory Tate, DMin

Third Advisor

Danielle Boone

Abstract

The Black church has historically served as a cornerstone of African American life, transcending its role as a place of worship to become a multifaceted institution deeply embedded in the community’s cultural, social, and political fabric. However, the Black church has been unable to connect with teens, young adults, and young families due to its proclivity towards Black Baptist approaches towards worship, ministry, and community engagement. The rationale for conducting this study is to increase the number of millennial church leaders fully vested in the solvency of the Black church and positions of succession. Across the published literature, Black churches in the United States are reporting a decline in the number of millennials attending Black congregations. The primary audience of this writing submission and artifact will be church leaders, pastors, and educators. In the Black community, the Black church plays an important role in creating a sense of belonging while offering guidance and sanctuary to members. Therefore, understanding why Black millennials were not involved in church activities and leadership programs would inform leaders of where they were failing or why their programs were unattractive to young adults, teens, and families. Despite being one of the most religious demographics in the United States, Black millennials exhibit increasing religious disaffiliation. This study, along with the accompanying video documentary, aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the challenges facing Black churches in retaining millennial engagement.

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