Brooklyn's Black church choirs persist amid attendance decline, gentrification
Briefly

Brooklyn, known for its abundance of churches, has seen a decline in pew attendance over the years. Nonetheless, many church choirs continue to perform, even with fewer members, as neighborhoods undergo gentrification and organized religious affiliation diminishes. At Concord Baptist Church of Christ, choir member Jessica Howard led the gospel song 'God Is,' stirring deep emotions among attendees. Howard expressed her link to her ancestors while singing, feeling a connection that transcends generations and highlights the personal significance of gospel music in her life.
Standing in front of the gospel choir at Concord Baptist Church of Christ, Jessica Howard led the gospel standard 'God Is' that resonated deeply with the congregation. Dressed in a powder-pink floral dress, she called out lines that celebrated God as 'joy in sorrow' and 'strength for tomorrow,' evoking strong emotions among choir members who connected deeply with the song's message.
As a Black Christian person, Jessica Howard feels a profound connection to her ancestors when she sings. Her experience at Concord Baptist Church allows her to sense that it's not just her voice but her lineage singing along.
Read at Newsday
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