Though Spirited Life has focused primarily on the health of individual pastors, we have heard some inspiring stories about wellness initiatives popping up in many UMC congregations across the state. Some that come to mind are: blood pressure screenings after Sunday worship services, walking and running clubs, weekly centering prayer gatherings, support groups for dieters, community health fairs, and church-wide efforts to make communal meals healthier.
For pastors and congregations wanting to implement health programming or to develop a health ministry at their church, here are 3 great resources:
Partners in Health & Wholeness, an initiative of the NC Council of Churches: “provides people of faith with the tools necessary to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives” through:
- PHW certification program, which then gives your congregation eligibility for mini-grants to support future health ministry programming
- Success stories from NC churches
Church Health Reader, an offering of the Church Health Center: “produces innovative resources on health and healing for lay leaders and clergy.” Some resources include:
- Making your church building and grounds safer and healthier
- How to support congregants with certain types of illness
- Ten alternatives to a bake sale fundraiser
- How to start a health ministry at your church
Eat Smart, Move More NC: “a statewide movement that promotes increased opportunities for healthy eating and physical activity wherever people live, learn, earn, play and pray.” Examples include:
- Health-related bulletin inserts
- Planning guide for starting a Eat Smart, Move More program at your church
- A Faithful Families curriculum, which incorporates spiritual discussion into a 9-session long health education program for families
- Tips for planning healthier celebrations
We hope you’ll let us know what your church is doing to promote wellness among your congregants and in your community!
-Katie Huffman
Photo by Flickr user Greater Louisville Medical Society, via CC