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.

Judaism
When Founded: 
In 2000 BCE. It’s considered the first recorded monotheistic faith and among the oldest religious traditions still in practice today.
Beliefs
Its traditional practices and traditions revolve around study and the observance of God’s laws and commandments.
Who They Worship 
A single, omniscient, benevolent, transcendent God who created the universe and continues to govern it. 
Number of Followers:
An estimated 15 million.
The Fine Print 
Perfected it.
Recognizable Member: 
Performer Sammy Davis Jr.

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