The Case for Diversity Engagement within the AME Church: When Prayer Alone Isn’t Enough

By Jai A. Ingraham, MPA, Guest Editor

In a socially-complex and politically-laced environment, there are demands on religious institutions to meet the needs of people where there are. The AME Church has a tradition of providing socially-relevant and conscious leadership for the disenfranchised members of the African American diaspora. However, the social landscape of religious institutions has changed and the AME Church finds itself trying to tactfully address diversity within its organization.

The church should be a place where all people, no matter their condition or race, may come to receive the unadulterated word of God. This premise coincides perfectly with the intended platform of diversity. Diversity engagement is a necessary tool for expanding the effectiveness and authenticity of ministry. Nevertheless, the question should be asked, “How has the AME Church positioned itself to be a leader in this potential opportunity for ministry growth and expansion?”

Functionally, there is a difference between acknowledgment and acceptance. All people want to be affirmed. The AME Church was born out of this cognitive dilemma of consciousness. The founder, Richard Allen, recognized this need by establishing the Free African Society in 1787 as a precursor to the AME Church denomination. Allen sought to meet the needs of people and cared less about his own importance.

As we wrestle to affirm our identities as Christians and as a denomination, we cannot negate the reality that is before us. While prayer is the conduit that facilitates our connection to God, we are obligated to address polarizing constructs that may impact our ability to thrive as an institution for future generations. The following are three ideas that may give insight on how diversity engagement can enhance the denomination.

The first is to communicate our perspective. According to its official website, part of the AME Church’s purpose is, “to provide continuing programs which will enhance the entire social development of all people.” Making people better is at the heart of our mission as a denomination. We should embrace ministry to foster diversity in all facets of society.

Second is to converse about our differences. Ignorance fuels regret. As a denomination, if do not get out of our comfort zone, we will continue to miss opportunities to improve our state. The world is bigger than the AME Church. We must fervently commit to engage others across denominational lines that may challenge our identity and modality. Diversity demands it.

Finally, we mustconfirm what the Word of God says. In promoting diversity engagement within our denomination, we should not circumvent the call and cause of Christ. We should treat each other with compassion while standing on the word of God.

The necessity of diversity must be realized if the AME Church is going to continue to be relevant as a denomination. We have a spiritual responsibility to uphold the mission of the church while meeting the needs of all. With Christ as the catalyst for continuing its mission, the AME Church can affirm its cause by committing to promote diversity engagement not just in theory but also authentically in practice.

Mr. Jai Ingraham is President/CEO of I-Inspire Diversity & Leadership Consulting, LLC and is the supply pastor of Wayman Chapel AME Church in Hybart, Alabama.