Many urban communities are experiencing major changes in their demographics, culture and the traditional mission of the Black church. These changes are evident in the decline in church attendance, cultural practices and the migration/displacement of ethnic populations from areas of the city that historically provided safety and belonging especially for marginalized groups.

Cities are beginning to see new influx of middle to upper income populations in communities that were economically neglected but are now being revitalized through new developments primarily in housing and other commercial enterprises. Significant numbers of low income people, who, in many instances were the bedrock of those neglected communities have been displaced by more affluent people who tend not to support existing ethnic churches and small businesses. Consequently, many of these traditional institutions and businesses are forced to close or experience rapid economic decline as the new population create new cultural and religious practices.

The study will use focus groups, qualitative and quantitative methodologies to understand the phenomenon of gentrification and its impact on the church, cultural practices and historic mission the Black Church. This phenomenological study will focus on deepening the understanding of displaced populations, cultural shifts and the appropriate leadership response to this emerging urban crisis. At this stage in the research gentrification will be defined as the rehabilitation of working class, low income and abandoned housing facilities and the subsequent transformation of space and groups into middle and upper income communities.