The Development and Implementation of a Health and Wellness Ministry at the Open Door Church of Louisville in Louisville, Kentucky

Abstract

Chapter 1 gives an introduction to The Open Door Church of Louisville and its surrounding community. The demographics of the community and church reveal that the congregation of Open Door is receptive to the implementation of a health and wellness ministry. Chapter 2 addresses the biblical and theological issues surrounding a health and wellness ministry. It seeks to provide a foundation for the understanding of the value of a wholistic approach in ministering to people. Biblical texts are presented to explain what the Bible says about the importance of our stewardship toward our bodies. Chapter 3 describes and discusses the African American picture of health giving the past and current health status of black women and black men. In addition, this chapter seeks to discuss health disparities and the most common diseases plaguing the African American community. Chapter 4 explains the process used in the implementation of the project. Chapter 5 focuses on analysis and evaluation of the project initiatives. This includes both successful and unsuccessful results of those initiatives taken. This chapter also examines the strong and weak points of the project through reflection upon the project. Additionally, an assessment is be made of the impetus for future activities evolving out of this project.