Margaret is the spirited pastor of a Harlem church where she lives with her 18-year-old son, David. Having left her husband 10 years ago, she projects a self-righteous aura while demanding strict adherence to her religious rules from her congregation. She uses her sermons to maintain control over her community, though her strictness masks deep vulnerabilities and unresolved past trauma.

Luke is Margaret's estranged husband and David's father. A talented jazz trombonist, he returns to Harlem deeply ill after a decade apart from his family. Despite his failing health, he retains his stubborn nature and a profound affection for Margaret. He seeks to reconnect with his son and force his wife to confront the truth of their separation.

David is the 18-year-old son of Margaret and Luke. Raised under the strict eye of his mother's congregation, he serves as the beloved church pianist. He experiences a crisis of faith and feels stifled by the rigid religious environment, secretly yearning for a life and a musical career beyond the church walls.

Odessa is a devoted member of the church and Margaret's most fiercely loyal friend. Serving as a caretaker figure, she works cleaning the homes of white families and often uses her own resources to support Margaret, such as financing a new Frigidaire. She defends her friend against the growing gossip of the congregation.

Sister Moore is an unmarried, proud member of the congregation who publicly praises Margaret's leadership. She claims to be devoted only to the Lord and initially serves as one of Margaret's staunchest allies. Her strict interpretation of faith lacks empathy, leading her to participate heavily in the church's rumor mill.

Brother Boxer is a vocal member of the church who drives a liquor truck to make a living. He faces frequent, public condemnation from Margaret for his profession, which breeds deep resentment in him. He serves as a catalyst for the congregation's growing dissatisfaction with Margaret's leadership.

Sister Boxer is a prominent member of the congregation and the wife of Brother Boxer. She actively defends her husband's right to earn a living driving a liquor truck and grows increasingly frustrated with Margaret's demands for poverty. She readily participates in the movement to scrutinize the pastor's life.

Ida Jackson is a young mother who attends the church. She deals with a difficult marriage to a man who refuses to attend services, and she is desperate for spiritual intervention to heal her sick child. Her devotion to her husband despite Margaret's advice forces the older woman to reflect on her own past choices.

Sister Sally is a member of the congregation who participates in the discussions about the church's finances and Margaret's lifestyle. She voices practical concerns about why Christians must remain in poverty, echoing her mother's sentiments.

Sister Rice is a member of the congregation who questions the use of worldly instruments like trumpets and drums in the church service, prompting Margaret to defend their use.