Role of Spiritual Intelligence in Public Policy in the African American Pentecostal Church

Abstract

Role of Spiritual Intelligence in Public Policy in the African American Pentecostal Church by James B. Smith MPA, University of Baltimore, 2000 BS, Coppin State University, 1997 Dissertation Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy Public Policy and Public Administration Walden University November 2019 Abstract Although many U.S. faith-based organizations have become partners to the government, the African American Pentecostal Church (AAPC), which holds spirituality as a means of serving humanity as its theological framework, has remained a silent partner in public policy engagement. With the framework of spiritual intelligence, this qualitative case study addressed the perceptions of African American Pentecostal leaders regarding how the church’s theology may have an impact on the public policy engagement of itsAlthough many U.S. faith-based organizations have become partners to the government, the African American Pentecostal Church (AAPC), which holds spirituality as a means of serving humanity as its theological framework, has remained a silent partner in public policy engagement. With the framework of spiritual intelligence, this qualitative case study addressed the perceptions of African American Pentecostal leaders regarding how the church’s theology may have an impact on the public policy engagement of its parishioners. Twelve African American Pentecostal Bishops were interviewed, and data were coded and analyzed to identify themes. Results revealed that participants use their spirituality to connect with public policy issues that relate to their personal experiences. Findings also indicated that the AAPC is not an organized denomination, but rather a conglomeration of factions. Lack of an organized epicenter and lack of training and development of its leaders prevent this church from engaging in the public sphere. Although members embrace their responsibility to care for the needs of others, the church lacks a collective response to community issues. Findings may be used to prepare the next generation of AAPC leaders to unify the church to offer spiritual solutions to public policy issues. Role of Spiritual Intelligence in Public Policy in the African American Pentecostal Church by James B. Smith MPA, University of Baltimore, 2000 BS, Coppin State University, 1997 Dissertation Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy Public Policy and Public Administration Walden University November 2019 Dedication This dissertation is dedicated to my village—all of the people who have influenced and impacted my life; some of whom have transitioned from labor to reward. The members of my village are too many to name. I carry each of you in my heart, and thank each of you for your consistency and unwavering support. I am because of each of you. Acknowledgments My sincerest appreciation is extended to Dr. Eliesh O. Lane, Dr. Anne Hacker, and Dr. Olivia Yu for their guidance, patience, and encouragement. To my wife, Cheryl, and daughter, Lisa, I thank you for your prayers and unconditional love. To my mother, Cynthia, thank for every sacrifice you made for me, both seen and unseen. To my father, Dexter, and my sister, Kalisa, you have become an integral part of my being. To my maternal grandmother, Ella Grey Hatcher, who loved me unconditionally. To my spiritual fathers, Apostle Robert Evans, Jr. and Bishop Kenneth H. Moales, Sr., who shaped and groomed me for ministry. To my mentors, Dr. T. J. Bryan and Dr. Ioanna T. Morfessis, you will forever have my gratitude for using your wisdom to guide my steps. Finally, to my dearest and closest friends, Alicia, Sheri, Mark, and Beverly, my life is enriched because of each of you, and I am complete because of our friendships.