Why should a Christian organization have a wellness program?
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From the first sin, man is cursed to be born in sin and shaped in inquity. Consequently,
physical deterioration and death begins from the moment of birth. Throughout life, man
will experience challenges to physical, spiritual, and emotional health. Most Christian
organizations already have a person or program that deals with counseling, praying and
visiting their sick. A need for healing is an important reason why many seek Christ or
deepen their faith. A need for healing actually exists BEFORE a crisis, and preventive
steps to avoid or improve a health impairment is often an effective course of action.
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Stewardship is another focus of Christian organizations. However, while stewardship of
finances is the most popular stewardship topic, Christians have a stewardship duty to the
temple of the Holy Spirit.
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The Bible makes many references to the fact that God intended for His people to live
quality lives and enjoy good health. From the first set of nutritional guidelines given to
Noah, and New Testament guidelines for dailing living, God identified Biblical references
on how to avoid inducing degenerative diseases and enjoy His full blessing. In many
cases, our health is a reflection of our obedience, although, the Bible also points out that
sin is not the only cause for health challenges. Some exist purely so that God will be
glorified, or to drive someone to their knees in recognition of who God is.
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With crisis management health care being so expensive, and the fact that many people
do not have health insurance, staying well is more sensible than trying to get better. A
team of qualified Christian health experts can create an important resource for teaching
and encouraging others to enjoy good health. Also, since healthy choices continuously
prove to impact emotional well being, and fostering a disciplined life, having a Christian
wellness programs will positively impact will all aspects of human health.
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What is an effective method for delivering a Christian Wellness program?
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Traditional fitness exercises and other health education, plus Bible study, prayer and
qualified Counseling support - will help clients get closer to Christ and to their health and
fitness goals. The Bible has much to say about healthy living and about the choices we
make that impact our health and performance. During a Christian wellness program you
could review, discuss and pray for help, hope, and healing from the Lord.
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Should non-Christians be welcomed to attend a Christian Wellness program?
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Yes! you should be unapologetically Christian, but never impose your belief on any
participant who gives us the privilege of serving them. However, they should understand
that your literature, music, and other collateral will expose them to your Christian
position.
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Who makes up a wellness team?
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A Pastor or spiritual advisor who can speak on the Biblical position of stewardship of the
body. This person ideally should practise this teaching as a living testimony.
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A health practitioner, such as a doctor or nurse.
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A nutritionist, or use of an existing, endorsed nutrition program.
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Certified Fitness instructors / Trainers.
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What is the focus of an onsite Wellness Program?
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Well, each organization or Christian health professional may have a passion for one or
more area of wellness and that passion will drive the focus of that program. However, in
general, a Wellness Program should work with other existing ministries such as the healing
ministry, the women's ministry, the youth ministry, the fellowship ministry, the
evangelistic outreach ministry to provide resources and add-on activities.
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For example:
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A wellness program may offer seminars or Bible studies that teach and encourage
stewardship of the body.
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A wellness program may offer community health fairs with information booths on various
crisis health issues and preventive care with a Biblical perspective.
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A wellness program may offer fitness classes open to the community for free or for a
minimal participation fee.
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A wellness program may coordinate a 5K/10K walk/run or bike community event.
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A wellness program may offer health screenings such as blood pressure and body fat
testing.
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A wellness program may offer healthy lifestyle and safety classes that create awareness
and prevention of known health and safety issues.
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A wellness program may offer addiction support groups and counseling.
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Who qualifies for membership to ICHFA?
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Christian health and fitness professionals, Christian organizations and churches with a
health and fitness program qualify for membership. An application form including a
statement of faith must be completed and submitted for membership consideration.
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