Pastor John Sykes of Grace Community Bible Church on Dorsett Road is very proud of his church.

One of the few predominantly black churches in Maryland Heights, Grace Community is a place of fellowship. Pastor Sykes and his church have had a peaceful existence in the city, but Grace Community has struggled when it comes to obtaining a diverse membership.

"When I first started the ministry years ago, I told my church that God wanted us to have a mixed congregation and I held on to that for many years. But what I found was that it is hard for a black pastor or church leader to gain white followers and other members of different races," he said. "This is because as blacks in the church, we tend to be passionate in our services—we shout, we stomp, we show outward emotion and you do not see a lot of that in predominately white churches."

Sykes may be onto something. In a recent report showcased on UrbanFaith.com, Sunday mornings have proven to be the most segregated time in America. According to the Sociological Inquiry, a study given by sociologists from Baylor University and Pennsylvania State indicated that nine out of 10 U.S. churches are segregated.

Religion isn't based on color, but if this study is accurate, our churches are.

"Our style of preaching is different from other churches. Black church services also run a bit longer than other types of churches," Sykes said, adding that people from other cultures who are used to shorter services may be turned off.

How do we make Sundays a less divisive day in America? Is it uncomfortable to worship amongst a different race other than our own?

I make it a point to visit different churches to get a different feel of how they deliver the Word. This also gives me a different view of the world and of religion—just like my neighborhood, I want a diverse and varied viewpoint when it comes to my spirituality.

Maryland Heights has been blessed with many churches of different backgrounds and ethnic origins. The popular Grace Church on Creve Coeur Mill Road is one example of a church that has a diverse membership.

Pastor Sykes said he would like to think church segregation could change and disappear entirely. "We do have our share of white members, one of which was a member for 10 years, an elderly woman. The focus has to be on Jesus. Whether you are black, white, hispanic, asian, etc., the message should always be Christ centered."

I agree wholeheartedly.