As a foundation for the special issue of The Journal of Negro Education which examines the role of spirituality, religion and the African American church on educational outcomes, this editor's contribution explores how religious influences influence academic success among Black students. Using a national sample of 6,795 eighth and tenth graders, who completed Monitoring the Future: A Continuing Study of American Youth in 2008, this study found that Black students who participated in more religious activities and who had stronger religious convictions were more likely to report higher grades in school, had a positive self-concept, positive feelings about school, parents involved with their education, and fewer disciplinary referrals. However, educational disparities between Black and White students indicate key areas for Black churches to leverage social resources and capital to improve academic success among Black students.