Apostolic Life in the 21st Century How Do We Build Multicultural Congregations?
Jan 19, 2026
Reflection on why racial and cultural inclusion matters for churches today. Discussion of denominational efforts and shifting demographics. A twofold strategy: welcome locals and plant in minority neighborhoods. Practical ten-step practices for building diverse congregations. Emphasis on teaching inclusion, creating leadership paths, listening, adapting worship, and addressing conflict with love.
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Churches Should Intentionally Mirror Heaven
- Churches should aim to mirror heaven by intentionally welcoming every race, nationality, and language.
- David K. Bernard notes the UPCI updated its Articles of Faith and timeline to emphasize inclusivity as a biblical imperative.
UPCI Demographics Reflect Global Diversity
- UPCI demographics in the U.S. and Canada roughly mirror the population with about 61% white and 39% minority representation.
- Globally UPCI is majority non-white, with 6.1 million constituents across 203 nations, highlighting the church's worldwide diversity.
Combine Integration With Targeted Church Planting
- Use a twofold strategy: make every church welcoming while intentionally planting churches in culturally or linguistically concentrated neighborhoods.
- Bernard emphasizes geographic and cultural outreach because many won't travel to a distant church.
