Black church plays key role in reducing health disparities within communities of color Pastors offer new health initiatives to members By: Michelle London and last updated 2021-07-12 17:45:46-04 Throughout the pandemic, Black churches across America have played a key role in reducing vaccine hesitancy. Now, faith leaders want to do more, shifting their focus to other health issues in hopes they can reduce disparities within the Black and brown community. For more than a year here at New Hope Church, the pews have remained empty. Still, each week, Senior Pastor Eugene Downing faithfully delivers a powerful message for Sundayâs service as though the sanctuary were full.