Quote of the Month

“Everyone in the world smiles in the same language.”

Mexican American Proverb

Faith and Health in African American culture

Today as I was thinking about what to talk about today, I ran across an interesting book review on Faith, Health and Healing in African American Life. This book, edited by Emilie Townes, who I met at AAR in October, and Stephanie Mitchem, explores the history of health belief systems in African culture and various religious groups. As a part of the Religion, Health and Healing series, it continues to address emerging issues such as depression in African American women and healing practices within the African American faith community.

This book offers insight to public health professionals, medical doctors and researchers to respond in a culturallly appropriate way when developing programs and offering medical advice. There has been an abundance of programs developed with faith based messages and research projects conducted within community faith groups.

In order to be effective in creating a healthier communities, this book allows exploration of the obstacles one may face as well as the avenues that are more adaptable to a specific focus area.

National Public Health Week Coming Soon

Next week, April 6-12, is National Public Health Week. Take the opportunity to look around your community and opportunities to serve in a public health capacity, specifically in a faith-based role.

• You may be the pastor or congregational leader. Lead your congregation on a walk around the community in which your church sits.
• You may be the outreach facilitator. Feed meals next week to those who are less fortunate.
• You may be the health ministry coordinator. Conduct blood pressure screenings for the adults while the kids hunt for Easter eggs.
• You may be over the children’s ministry. Instead of buying sugary candy for your kids, spend a little more for seasonal fruits.

Also check out this video done to answer some questions as to why public health matters!