Red ties, red dresses and hats. The pastoral processional and proclamation of the gospel—your body/his temple. An old negro spiritual, Oh Freedom, sung by the choir who was directed by a University of Denver music professor. Verses were added to this hymn, highlighting current day struggles given that this was Black History Month. A few more prayers and music praise. A family received the baptism of their lovely little girl, as a row of newcomers looked on, admiring the cultural exchange.
Reverend Davis was feeling the spirit. It was evident that his body had been filled with the Word. His deep voice, strong with intention reiterated the importance of the heart health message that had been delivered. He began, your body—is a temple of the Holy Spirit. The Lord has commanded us to take care of our bodies so we can give him acceptable praise. It matters what we do with our bodies. The body needs maintenance and upkeep! He asked the congregation – how are you keeping your body?
As a people, he preached, Black folks have an eating problem, which is destroying our health. He spoke on the fact that overeating is addressed in the bible. He shared some scriptures that spoke to the issues of eating properly to maintain the body. He encouraged people to not let their appetite rule them. “Everything that tastes good is not necessarily good for you!” Control your appetite. You are in control of your appetite. You are a sacred treasure.
As is characteristic of many pastors, his actual conclusion came about three times after his proclamation that these were his final words. Nevertheless, his conclusion supported that eating healthy is good for the heart an
During Heart Health/American Heart Month (https://newsroom.heart.org/events/february-is-american-heart-month-6669831) and beyond, everyone is needed, to continue the work to improve the health of the Black community. We know that although the rates of heart disease have declined over the past three decades, heart disease remains the leading cause of death for all men and women in the U.S., but especially Black men and women. Risk factors for coronary heart disease include high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, obesity and others. Blacks are often disproportionately affected by these conditions.
Ministers/Pastors are prefect instruments to deliver these health messages. They have a captive audience every Sunday. They are masterful in intertwining the tenets of Christianity and spirituality to advocate for health behavior changes. They interpret sacred text and advocate for the adherence to God’s Word. Pastors are powerful, trusted, and well respected by congregants and community members. When a minister preaches and teaches through the Word, people listen. A study in the Journal of Religion and Health, https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwjVo9aw1cHZAhVPxmMKHc76D9oQFggpMAA&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fpubmed%2F21965057&usg=AOvVaw3CkwZb3QEO8DM8WGJynl04, reported that pastors believe that discussing health screenings and other health issues more frequently from the pulpit and their own personal experiences would ultimately impact the health behaviors among their congregants. The study suggests that African American pastors see themselves as health promoters in the church and believe this will have impact on the health behaviors among their congregants.
What a powerful resource in the Black community!
Can I get an Amen!
Dr. T.