This project addresses a critical challenge facing African immigrant churches in North America: the growing generational divide threatening their unity and vitality. As a first-generation African immigrant pastor and academic, I have witnessed firsthand the struggles of maintaining cultural identity while adapting to a new society.
Our research will explore innovative approaches to intergenerational ministry, combining academic rigor with practical application. Through surveys, interviews, case studies, and action research, we will examine how these churches can bridge generational gaps while honoring cultural heritage and embracing contemporary realities.
This is not just about church growth – it is about ensuring these vibrant communities continue to provide spiritual guidance, cultural connections, and social support for generations to come. We will develop a practical toolkit for church leaders, contribute to academic discourse, and create transferable models for other immigrant and multicultural church contexts.
By bridging the academy and the church, this project will offer valuable insights into navigating cultural transitions, preserving heritage, and creating inclusive faith communities in an increasingly diverse society. It is a unique opportunity to strengthen African immigrant churches and enrich the tapestry of North American Christianity.