Published in:
01-06-2021 | Public Health | Philosophical Exploration
Combating Contagion and Injustice: The Shared Work for Public Health and Faith Communities During COVID-19
Authors:
Joshua T. B. Williams, Adrian Miller, Abraham M. Nussbaum
Published in:
Journal of Religion and Health
|
Issue 3/2021
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Abstract
Faith communities are uniquely positioned for essential public health work to combat the COVID-19 pandemic and address the chronic pre-existing health disparities that have been exacerbated by COVID-19. Specifically, faith communities can (1) dialogue with public health communities, developing internal policies and meeting guidelines consistent with evidence-based recommendations and their own faith traditions, (2) bolster religious daycare and parochial school immunization policies, and (3) partner with faith-based organizations through financial support and volunteer hours. This essential work will complement governmental public health approaches and ensure faith communities can assist with future pandemics.