Whether inspiring their congregations to stand up against social injustice or urging a focus on God-centered family values, black religious leaders are a crucial component of a rich and diverse spiritual landscape. In honor of Black History Month, Beliefnet has compiled a list of some of the nation's most influential black spiritual leaders in 2008. While by no means comprehensive, the list includes some of today's most prominent--and controversial--spiritual figures, some up-and-coming figures of note, and several individuals whose lifelong efforts have earned them a place in history.

Related Topics: Role Model, Spiritual, Church, Women, religious leaders, spiritual values, congregation, black spiritual leaders, Leader, influential black, social justice congregations

GALLERY

Most Influential Black Spiritual Leaders

In black communities, religious leaders have historically occupied a powerful position as gurus, advocates, stewards and preachers. In honor of Black History Month, Beliefnet has compiled a list of some of the nation's most influential black spiritual leaders in 2008.

Related Topics: Faiths, African-American, Black Americans, Spiritual, Church, Women, religious leaders, spiritual values, congregation, black spiritual leaders, Leader, influential black, social justice congregations

GALLERY

Most Influential Black Spiritual Leaders 2007

Whether inspiring their congregations to stand up against social injustice or urging a focus on God-centered family values, African-American religious leaders are a crucial component of a rich and diverse spiritual landscape. In honor of Black History Month, Beliefnet has compiled a list of some of the nation’s most influential African-American spiritual leaders. While by no means comprehensive, the list includes some of today’s most prominent--and controversial--spiritual figures, some up-and-coming figures of note, and several individuals whose lifelong efforts have earned them a place in history.

Related Topics: Role Model, Spiritual, Leader, african american, religious leaders, affordable housing, Women, spiritual values, best selling author, spiritual leaders, Social