See How Churches Got Involved

"Body & Soul"

Step 3. A church environment that promotes healthy eating and physical
activities

Body & Soul is the most effective when the church sets a good example. The congregation needs to hear the pastor speak about health. They also need to get information about healthy lifestyles. But sermons, handouts, and even classes are not enough. Church members also need to eat healthy foods at church events and also have the opportunity to participate in physical activities through the church.

Serving more fruits, vegetables, and other healthy foods at church shows that the church ìpractices what t preaches.î The church is committed to the health of the congregation. And a healthy lifestyle becomes a part of church life.

Ideas for a Healthy Church Environment

Successful Body & Soul programs bring more healthy foods into the church.
Here are some examples:

• Serve more fruits and vegetables after church services and in church programs, especially those that involve children.
• Set up church policies that ensure more healthy foods are served at church functions. The policies should include vending machines and church stores as well.
• Make changes in the church kitchen. These can include training the kitchen committee, changing recipes and menus, and stocking the pantry with more fruits and vegetables.
• Encourage the members to share the bounty of their gardens with the church
  family.
• Give bags of healthy foods for church members.
• Ask your local market to give discounts on healthy foods served on Sundays.
• Start a fitness program.
• Make a church walking path -inside or outside the church.
• Have an open gym on specified weekday nights.

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