| The Denominational Leadership Health Initiative |
 In March 2005, The Balm In Gilead launched The African American Denominational Leadership Health Initiative (AADLHI) in partnership with the National Women's Missionary Societies of The African Methodist Episcopal Church (AME); The African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church (AME Zion); and The Christian Methodist Episcopal Church (CME). The Balm In Gilead's decision to engage the national leadership of the women's missionary societies was determined by the thinking and knowledge that African American women are at high risk for HIV/AIDS, cervical cancer, and far too many other health disparities. The three historical Black Methodist denominations were chosen because of their long-standing commitment to society change through education, social justice and determination. The Women's Missionary Societies of these three denominations have historically anchored the Christian movement for over four centuries within the United States and abroad. This partnership represents the first time that African American church denominations have joined with a non-governmental organization to strengthen its internal organizational structures for the purpose of engaging the denomination at every level in the provision of health education, service and compassionate support. Working within each denomination respectively, the Balm In Gilead sought a partnership with the office of the National President(s) of each missionary society, which ultimately after many meetings and discussions, has resulted, to date, in a church-wide partnership within the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church (AMEZ) and the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church (CME), that includes the Board of Bishops of the AME Zion Church and the College of Bishops of the CME Church; the Executive Board(s) of the Women’s Missionary Society, Episcopal District(s) leadership and local churches throughout the US and abroad. Partnership Objectives and Activities
Visit www.balmingilead.org for upcoming program initiatives and information. |
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