Abstract
For the past two years, the Interdenominational Theological Center (ITC) has intentionally engaged some of the foremost intellects and prominent voices in the church and the community to dialogue and address public-policy issues impacting our society. Special focus was given to HIV/AIDS, poverty, and health disparities. Although pervasive in society, these concerns affect the African-American community disproportionately higher than any other ethnic group. While these discussions are presented in mainstream media occasionally and with shallow interest as minor items in newspapers, as news flashes, or trailers to more sensational stories on nightly news television a more insightful focus and dependable conversation is required. Consistent in African-American history, it becomes the responsibility of the Black Church to bring attention and voice to these issues, with a goal of broad-based community intensive education and to garner collective participation of members of the faith community in becoming change makers for the commongood. Our greatest power base for reaching the African-American community is from the pulpit to the pew.