"No matter how much talent you have in your mind and spirit, if your body is not able to function, you are not able to fulfill your destiny." -T. D. Jakes
(Washington, DC)—The Washington Post reports that African-American churches around the country and getting serious about getting holy.
With statistics showing African Americans at a higher risk of obesity, it is an issue that is being addressed seriously.
It cites the initiative of one congregation at First Baptist Church of Glenarden, which recently held a health and fitness expo that drew in more than 2,000 people.
One of the attendees, James Tate, 33, who lost 200 pounds through a church-based weight loss program, explains that it's not just about educating people.
"The key for me," he says, "was getting closer to God."
The report also mentions Pastor T. D. Jakes, who also endorses teaching a healthy living style after having experienced health issues as a result of his weight.
"No matter how much talent you have in your mind and spirit, if your body is not able to function, you are not able to fulfill your destiny," says Jakes.
"My father died when he was 48 and I was only 16, so I am bombarded with the reality that health can be a challenge."
