This article explores the nature of choice in the formation of churches and the resultant negative side effects. The observations are taken from research projects in which the author studied churches and clergy in two cities. Contrary to the initial claims, homogeneous churches do not appear to be moving toward racial reconciliation as they mature. The central problem is that the lack of intentionality in confronting prejudice as part of the formational process perpetuates the racism and prejudice that is characteristic of all human societies. The missiological response includes confronting racism and prejudice by intentionally fostering reconciliation through inter-ethnic relationships and developing a contextualized response to the changing world outside the church.
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