Abstract
The Black church has become a necessary refuge and haven for hope in turbulent times in the USA. In recent years, the Black pastors' role has evolved into the position of a leading figure in addressing health disparities in the church and community. Therefore, the purpose of this qualitative study was to gain a more extensive understanding of Black pastors' perceptions of their influence on health behaviors and outcomes in their churches and communities. Due to limited research in this area, a phenomenological qualitative paradigm was used to add to future research. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 Black pastors. Four themes emerged: Pastoral Self-Reflection of Health; Misperception of Health Awareness from Congregants; Pastoral Leadership that Encourages Health Promotion; and the Importance of Community Resources and Health Programs. Overall, pastors viewed health as a holistic approach and included the importance of spirituality in their perspectives. According to pastors, there are suggestions for more access to resources, community partnerships, and education to address the lack of participation among black congregants.
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Acknowledgements
The authors are grateful to all the pastors who participated in this study. Reverend Dr. Bartholomew Banks, President of Progressive Missionary and Educational Baptist Convention of Florida, Inc. & St. John Progressive Missionary Baptist Church, Pastor Tampa, Florida. Reverend Brian K. Brown, Moderator of South Florida Progressive Missionary Baptist Association & St. Mark Missionary Baptist Church, Pastor St. Petersburg, Florida. Dr. Cosette Whitmore, President of Health Awareness Team, Progressive Missionary and Educational Baptist Convention of Florida.
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Williams, L.F., Cousin, L. “A Charge to Keep I Have”: Black Pastors’ Perceptions of Their Influence on Health Behaviors and Outcomes in Their Churches and Communities. J Relig Health 60, 1069–1082 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10943-021-01190-0
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10943-021-01190-0