A Brief History Historically, African American churches, also known as The Black Church, is a religious institution that serves the black community. The Black Church has a history of being a source of hope, peace, strength, and in some cases, restoration for those in despair (Valera …show more content…
William was the choir director, Minister of Music, and youth pastor at Holy Redeemer Church. He attended various functions throughout each week which made the church part of his everyday life. However, when rumors spread about a few members of the church being gay, William was singled out because he was the most active in the church. He was confronted by the pastor and treated unkindly which left him feeling betrayed. He was well known by the congregation because he had been attending that church since he was a young child. Being treated coldly by the Pastor he admired and loved as a father figure hurt him deeply. He was equally hurt by being told to discontinue his activities at the church or leave altogether. He became the source of gossip within the very community he once loved and served and was not offered any support by family members. These occurrences coupled with the challenges he faced within his relationship with Charles left him feeling severely depressed. Feeling hopeless and alone, William tragically, ended his life as a result of his extreme