St. Paul and Rochester churches recently came together for the Walk By FAITH! events, a program designed to unite congregations, study participants, and community leaders around heart health and wellness. The events drew strong turnout from participants across both cities, highlighting the commitment of local faith communities to promote healthy living.
St. Albans Church in St. Paul and RCCG Chosen Generation in Rochester were recognized as the top participating churches. Pastor William Land of St. Albans Church described the experience as both personal and communal. “As I reflect on this experience, it is not just a personal journey for me, but rather a community of believers who have dedicated their lives to pleasing God in every way — mind, soul, and body. That is why it is called the FAITH program. It promotes healthy living, healthy thinking, and healthy relationships, which are essential for maintaining a healthy heart. It is like a kiss from someone you really love; everything about it makes you feel better,” he said.
Participants praised the events for their energy and camaraderie. Rev. Marcia Wyatt of New Hope Baptist Church said, “Walk By FAITH! came at a key point in our experiences at New Hope Baptist Church. We have been making good gains, and it was what was needed to give us a boost. It was exciting to hear members share that they could have continued walking a little longer and a little further. It was also a blessing to share this experience with other participants of the program. Lots of energy, lots of laughs and smiles. Great FELLOWSHIP!”
Credit: Courtesy of Walk By FAITH!
First Lady Brenda Granison of New Creations Ministries Church of God in Christ (COGIC) highlighted the program’s broader impact. “At New Creations Ministries COGIC, walking together strengthened us physically, spiritually, and collectively. We are proud to support Techquity as it brings health equity, access, and life-saving heart health awareness to our community,” she said.
A God-inspired vision
Dr. LaPrincess Brewer, founder of the Walk By FAITH! program, described the events as a “God-inspired vision to unite our partnering churches, study participants, and community leaders in a shared commitment to achieving the best heart health possible. We encouraged everyone to truly ‘walk the walk’ — embracing physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being on their personal journeys. We are deeply grateful to our leaders for their steadfast support, generous words of encouragement, and for walking beside us in solidarity.”
When asked what inspired her to start the program, Brewer said she saw an opportunity to combine faith and wellness in a way that addressed health disparities in Minnesota’s African American communities. “We wanted to create something that not only promoted physical health but also strengthened spiritual and emotional well-being. The idea is to engage communities where they are, in ways that feel supportive and empowering,” she said.
Bringing health and technology together
Alongside the walking events, the Techquity By FAITH! initiative focuses on expanding digital access and promoting health equity. Brewer explained that technology can be a vital tool in improving health literacy and reaching communities that have been historically underserved. “Access to information is critical,” she said. “Techquity helps participants connect with resources that can prevent disease and manage their health proactively. It also allows congregations to share knowledge and foster community support for healthier lifestyles.”
Brewer shared examples of success from partner churches. “Some churches have created walking groups, virtual workshops, and heart health challenges, all enabled through Techquity. Members are using tablets and online resources to track their progress and encourage one another, which has strengthened both their hearts and their connections.”
Community leaders step up
The program has drawn support from local leaders, pastors, and city officials, reflecting a collaborative approach to public health. Brewer emphasized that the events are designed to foster partnerships across the public health and faith sectors. “When churches, leaders, and health professionals come together, we can make a bigger impact. It’s about showing that health is a community effort, and every step counts,” she said.
Looking ahead
Brewer said Walk By FAITH! and Techquity By FAITH! will continue to expand in the coming years, reaching more churches and participants statewide. She hopes the model can inspire similar programs nationally. “We want to see more communities empowered to take control of their health while staying rooted in their faith. This is about sustainable wellness, not just one-off events,” she said.
The recent events reflect a larger movement to integrate faith, fellowship, and wellness. Participants and leaders alike praised the energy, enthusiasm, and tangible health benefits, reinforcing the role of community-based programs in promoting heart health and equity in Minnesota.
For more information, visit www.faith4heart.com.
Jasmine McBride welcomes reader responses at jmcbride@spokesman-recorder.com