Kingdom Building to Serve: A Practical Guide for Church Leaders in Community Development
The African American church has always been more than a place of worship. From the hush harbors of the enslaved to the pulpits of the Civil Rights Movement, it has been a refuge, a voice for justice, and a center of community transformation. Today, communities face new challenges—affordable housing, economic inequality, youth disconnection, health disparities, and cultural erasure. How can churches rise to meet these needs in ways that are faithful, practical, and sustainable?

In Kingdom Building to Serve, Dr. Teresa Jeter—professor, consultant, and community development strategist—equips pastors and church leaders with a clear roadmap for moving from vision to action. Drawing from more than 25 years of experience in urban planning, nonprofit leadership, and faith-based partnerships, she blends biblical wisdom, real-world case studies, and practical tools to help churches make lasting impact.

Inside this book, you’ll discover:
The historic and biblical foundations of the Black church as a community anchor.

How to dispense with myths that hold congregations back and embrace biblical truths about stewardship and service.

Step-by-step guidance on creating a nonprofit arm or Community Development Corporation to access grants and funding beyond tithes and offerings.

Strategies for financial stewardship, accountability, and sustainability.

Leadership development tools to mentor emerging leaders and avoid over-reliance on the pastor.

Practical models of church-led housing, workforce, youth, health, and cultural initiatives.

How to engage in advocacy and policy change to address root causes, not just symptoms.

Reflection and discussion guides for leadership teams, retreats, and Bible studies.

A full Toolkit and Resource Directory with templates, checklists, and national networks.

More than a program manual, this book is a companion for church leaders who want to leave a legacy of justice, hope, and transformation. Whether you pastor a large congregation or a small neighborhood church, Kingdom Building to Serve will inspire and equip you to:

Build stronger structures for community impact.

Launch sustainable projects rooted in both faith and sound planning.

Strengthen partnerships with nonprofits, governments, and businesses.

Serve holistically in housing, economics, education, health, and culture.

Prepare the next generation of leaders to carry the vision forward.