The Overcomers Health and Wellness Ministry: Integrating Faith and Physical Wellness in African American Congregations Open Access

Stoney, Leondra (Spring 2025)

Permanent URL: https://etd.library.emory.edu/concern/etds/pc289k676?locale=de%2F1000
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Abstract

The recipe for optimal physical health and wellness includes faith-based ingredients that align with the promises of God.  When these ingredients are active in the African American faith community, a culture of health and wellness flourishes within the church and beyond.  The pastor plays an intricate role in inspiring members of the congregation to invest in their physical health and well-being by leading by example and embracing opportunities to educate and empower others. Health ministries in local churches have the capacity to affect lasting change through programs that target physical health and wellness, especially in rural communities.  When pastors and congregants invest in their physical health, they are better equipped to fulfill their ministry call and purpose.  This study illustrates how an investment into church health and wellness programs in rural communities strengthens relationships and creates paths to circumvent the health disparities. 

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