First, that's where the people are. Religious congregations still bring together more people in an organized way than any other institution in American life. We were able to draw on the people who belonged to some 65 religious congregations, most of whom were not active in other housing organizing and CDC groups. This enabled GBIO to organize 5500 people to attend action meetings in Spring 2000, far more than other housing organizing groups had been able to turn out. Getting a large turnout from a congregational base is not automatic, however.
Clergy are leaders of congregations.
They can commit them to action. But congregations do not just turn out large numbers for social action unless clergy are actively involved in the organization. It also requires lay leaders to come forward to do organizing inside of the congregation. Faith-based organizing also lends a campaign moral authority. Though people in power tend to regard any organized group as a special interest group, people acting out of their faith values don't see themselves this way.