The fire-and-brimstone church no longer has a universal grip on sinners in search of spiritual uplift. Black folks are looking for inner social change through a myriad of spiritual avenues, from the meditative state of Buddhism to the humanistic unity of the Baha’i Faith. A quick-hit fact sheet on some alternatives.

Christianity
When Founded 
Began in the early 1st century AD Jerusalem as a Jewish sect.
Who They Worship
Salvation is granted by the grace of God alone, through faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour. 
Number of Followers 
Over 2 million worldwide.
Beliefs 
Based upon the revelation of Jesus of Nazareth, anointed by God to fulfill the Old Testament laws and prophecies. Saved souls experience the bliss of heaven while unsaved souls receive the torture of hell. 
The Fine Print 
Must roll-over all other accounts [of creation].
Recognizable Member
Filmmaker Tyler Perry

(Ken Parrish Perkins is a television writer who occasionally ditches his prime time preoccupation for higher order thinking.)