BY CONSTANCE BROWN, BSN, RN, CCM, D.C.E. (hc), GUEST WRITER TO THE TIMES
LAKE COUNTY – The Bethel Baptist Association of Florida, Health & Wellness Ministry in a concerted effort to empower its churches with life-saving skills, hosted a First Responder Workshop, which garnered participation from their association usher auxiliaries, local churches, and Bethel’s Health & Wellness Ministry Ambassadors it was held on Saturday, April 6th at Spark Level Missionary Baptist Church, Cherry Lake, Florida host Pastor Solomon Baker and Health Ambassador Deacon Willie Kuykendall. The workshop featured invaluable training sessions facilitated by community partners, including Mr. Jimmy Clarity, VP of Community Impact of the American Heart Association (AHA).
Moderator Dr. Willie E. Caison, Sr. of Bethel Baptist Association, states, “ I believe it is important for health and wellness to be a huge portion of ministry for all our churches and members. I thank God that we have members that are interested in sharing their talent, their efforts and their commitment to health and wellness in all areas. I am excited and giving God all the praise for the performance of this group across our district and community. “
One of the highlights of the workshop was the comprehensive self-monitoring blood pressure education provided by Mr. Clarity, AHA and Constance Brown, RN, Director of Bethel Health & Wellness Ministry , complemented by hands-only CPR training. Everyone gained practical insights into identifying and addressing emergency situations with confidence and competence. Representatives from churches across multiple counties Orange, Lake and Sumter counties actively engaged in the workshop. The impact of the workshop was tangible, with over twenty-five individuals now trained in administering blood pressure checks and basic knowledge of hands only CPR responding effectively to emergencies.
Looking ahead, the major health initiative for 2024 aims to establish a Health and Wellness Ministry in all their local churches. Central to this vision is the implementation of regular Sunday health moments during the service announcements or weekly bible study related to monthly health conditions and blood pressure screenings, supplemented by the provision of loaner blood pressure cuffs to the community.
This workshop is the beginning of preparation for May National High Blood Pressure Awareness Month. Local churches are planning to take blood pressure throughout the month of May. Bethel Health Ministry’s First Responder Workshop stands as a testament to the transformative power of collective action and serves as a beacon of hope for fostering healthier, safer communities across Florida and beyond. The Wellness Ministry stands on the word in 3 John 1:2 KJV, “Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.”
Contact the American Heart Association https://www.heart.org, Erick Sanchez, AHA 407-670-4614 to set up program at your church, National Health Observances www.health.gov, or email Lady Constance Brown, RN at [email protected] to assist with coordinating a health event.
