Inspired by leadership and community
I’d like to take this moment expose you to something deeper that captivated me during our visit to New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Georgia.
My team and I spent forty-eight hours with the fittest minister in America, Bishop Eddie L. Long, and his enormous congregation of 18,000+ people. I’ve never seen this many people in a church before! The church I attended growing up could fit on the stage at New Birth—I kid you not!
Although, I have to admit the size of the congregation and the facilities weren’t as inspiring as the commitment and example of health exhibited by the leadership of this church… gentlemen like the Bishop and Mr. Leo Smith absolutely floored me.
The resounding element that sparks a motivation for healthy living at New Birth begins with a leader who talks the talk, and walks the walk. It’s then reinforced by brothers and sisters who are focused and by each other’s side.
Not every congregation is fortunate enough to have a fitness complex attached to their church building, like Samson’s Health and Fitness Center is attached to New Birth. However, what I found inside can happen across this nation.
What’s inside is activity, energy, and community.
I walked into the Samson Center and played ball with the kids and talked to a few of the many brothers and sisters working out and walking on treadmills…together.
When I took a step back from what I was seeing to think about the loving atmosphere and motivation behind it, I simply smiled because I was reminded of what’s unique and beautiful about The Challenge.
Stepping into the healthy environment at New Birth was like stepping into a movement, and each person owned its message—striving for a healthy mind, soul, and body. What’s more is that my team and I witnessed a congregation who is not just looking to survive, but to live.
I want you to believe that the same motivation that dwells inside the people of New Birth dwells inside you. It does not allow you to quit, and it is fueled by a hope to live.
This is the weekend I experienced at New Birth. I had to share it with you because you are the leaders in your family and in your community. You can spark the motivation in others who desire more than survival. You can show them how to live.
Take a moment to spread the message of The Challenge, and get others to join us. Carrying the message will motivate you to keep up the fight as well. Thank you for your commitment and motivation.
Together, we can teach America how to live.
Yours in the fight.
~Dr. Ian
Post your comments here!
More photos from our visit on Flikr and below:
Comments (5)
I gained a lot of weight due to stress from being layed off from the mortgage industry for the 4th time in 2 years. What motivated me to lose the weight was I begin to develop High Blood Pressure. I have never weighed as much as I did 6 months ago. I had to cut salt out from my diet and got my behind back in the gym and stayed consistant. I have lost 20 pounds so far. I still have 25 more to reach my goal weight. I see some tips on here about switching up my workout routine so things don't get boring. Thanks for the tips! I will implement those this week.
Posted by ladydeecee | March 24, 2008 3:33 AM
Posted on March 24, 2008 03:33
Umm...he is not the fittest minister in the world. Not even close. I assure you that his bmi to not even close to the healthy range. Brother please don't perpetuate this man inappropriate desire to wear tight clothing in the pulpit.
Posted by bernard | March 19, 2008 11:23 AM
Posted on March 19, 2008 11:23
I'm having a hard time sticking to a diets. I have never had a weight problem and this is new to me. In thepast I have had to fight to gain weight after having a baby and now the weight just keep on coming. I work full time, care for my husband and maintain the household so there is very little spare time to add any thing to my day. I have been trying to fit a workout into my day but have not been able to. My day starts at 5 a.m. and sometimes end @ 11:00 p.m. Any and all suggestions are very much needed. Thanks
Posted by Libra lady | March 14, 2008 7:13 AM
Posted on March 14, 2008 07:13
Does anyone know where we can get the T-shirts?.. I haven't seen any advertising for them. Email me please.
Posted by FATFREEMITCHD | March 13, 2008 5:20 AM
Posted on March 13, 2008 05:20
This is the first time I have followed through on getting support via the internet to help me lose weight. It is important for me to change my eating habits and become better informed about how to eat healthier. My main fear is that to eat healthy means that I will no longer enjoy my food. I want to lose fifty pounds within a years time so if there is anyone out there who can pass on some really good and tasty receipes for fruit and vegetable dishes( I don't eat much of either) please pass them on. Be blessed and I will pray for all of us as we strive to make our bodies healthy temples.
Posted by Veronica | March 12, 2008 9:51 AM
Posted on March 12, 2008 09:51