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The Role and Influence of Faith Leaders on Health-Related Issues and Programs in their Congregation

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Abstract

This qualitative study explored the influence of faith leaders on health-related issues within their congregation. Semi-structured interviewers with 24 faith leaders found that chronic conditions and poor health behaviors were the top health challenges facing their congregation. A majority mentioned health-related activities taking place at their church. Most believed they had influence on their congregation for issues related to health/wellness, most commonly in the form of increasing awareness. A majority talked about the importance of being a role model. It is important to understand how to most effectively capitalize on the strengths of and engage pastors in health promotion efforts.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Health Science, Saginaw Valley State University, 7400 Bay Road, University Center, MI, 48710, USA

    Meghan Baruth

  2. Department of Kinesiology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA

    Melissa Bopp & Benjamin L. Webb

  3. College of Nursing, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA

    Jane A. Peterson

Authors
  1. Meghan Baruth
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  2. Melissa Bopp
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  3. Benjamin L. Webb
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  4. Jane A. Peterson
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Correspondence to Meghan Baruth.

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Baruth, M., Bopp, M., Webb, B.L. et al. The Role and Influence of Faith Leaders on Health-Related Issues and Programs in their Congregation. J Relig Health 54, 1747–1759 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10943-014-9924-1

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10943-014-9924-1

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