(L-R) Rev. Dr. John J. Haunter, Bishop H. Brookins, Rev. Eduardo Vickers and Rev. Rosie Medina join FAME”S congregation in a moment of praise and exercise at last Sunday’s sercice at FAME Church. FAME is leading the Let’s Move LA! Campaign.
Congregants show the immediate benefits of exercise, a smile.
Members of the FAME Congregation Move AME
FAME members of ALL ages get movin’!
Sharon Jackson
Freelance Writer
Church leaders and members of the FAME congregation celebrated the importance of a healthy mind, body and spirit recently by participating in energy-filled gospel aerobics. The FAME church is a long time advocate of improving health for members of the South Los Angeles community and is a leading church innovator in combining exercise with worship.
“One of the primary goals of the church is to help all of God’s children to live better,” said Reverend Dr. John J. Hunter. “African-Americans suffer some of the highest rates of obesity as well as diet-related preventable diseases. As a church we feel a responsibility to bring this message to the community. We invite everyone to join us in living longer, healthier lives.”
Midway through church services, Rev. Dr. John J. Hunter and other pastoral leaders brought the church to their feet in a spirit-filled praise/exercise routine. As the choir sang a traditional favorite gospel song, the audience was led by Dr. Thema Bryant-Davis, Director, Living Word Liturgical Dance Ministry, in a 5 minute exercise program which resulted in huge enthusiasm from the crowd.
The church experience was an extension of similar programs FAME has launched, including Let’s Move L.A., targeted at bringing First Lady Michelle Obama’s national campaign to end childhood obesity to the communities of Los Angeles, and the Body & Soul Wellness Program, designed to bring a message of better spiritual and physical health to all members of the congregation. As Mrs. Hunter stated, “We are extremely excited to have the opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of our young people. By incorporating exercise in the FAME worship experience, we want to remind families that children of all ages can get fit and lead healthier, more productive lives.”
To learn more about these important programs and to view exclusive video highlights, including FAME’s Living Word Liturgical Dance Ministry Gospel Aerobics video so that you can obtain the positive benefits of exercise anytime, visit: famechurch.org and letsmovela.org.
“There are benefits to moving your body and to dancing in the name of Jesus Christ,” says Dr. Thema Bryant-Davis, Director, Living Word Liturgical Dance Ministry. “It benefits your mind, your health and your general well-being. It’s your season to get fit and Move AME!”
