The Power of Prayer? Investigating the Role of Religious Affiliation in Socioeconomic Progress for Black Americans

Abstract

The purpose of this pilot study is to examine the potential relationship between religious engagement and economic outcomes among African Americans. The study addresses several research questions: (1) Do African Americans perceive their religious affiliation as contributing to their socioeconomic progress? (2) Does active involvement in religious activities predict higher annual income for African Americans? (3) Is there a significant correlation between the frequency of religious participation and the likelihood of African American students receiving scholarship or grant funding from religious organizations? This study collected quantitative data on participants’ income levels, religious activities, and scholarship information among African Americans in different areas. Based on survey responses from approximately 60% of 156 African American participants, it was revealed that religious communities have a positive impact on their socioeconomic status. These findings have reinforced the strong connection between religion and socioeconomics, noting that active involvement in religious services or activities could lead to higher annual incomes. Individuals who earned a higher income also reported more frequent participation in weekly religious services and activities. Furthermore, a chi-square test of independence showed a significant relationship between the frequency of religious participation and the likelihood of receiving a scholarship or grant funding from religious organizations. These findings provide a framework for additional research in this field to explore further the impact of religious communities on various aspects of African American life.