Pure Church Essay Example for Free

Pure Church Essay The service is at Pure Church in Birmingham, AL. I am at the heart of the South, literal marching ground of the civil rights movements in the 1950s. 50 years ago, this place was the launching ground for the black civil rights movement. This is where a revolution rang out from, a revolution that has bore the America of the present day (Rose, 1998). The sitting arrangement is oval in line with the church’s seats design. The church is surrounded with television sets all over so as to allow the congregation gets full view of the sermons. Pictures of young people responding to the emotional charges of the priest flashes all more frequently and families across the ocean, all to Atlanta, Selma and Montgomery and Ohio all get the glimpse of the preacher and the entire proceedings of the sermon from their television sets. Throughout the history the African- American church has maintained a tenacious grip on the gospel outsourcing justice. The congregation here are so emotionally charged and any sign of lack of emotional charge in one individual makes that person the odd one out, and therefore I had to do it as Romans do it as I was on their territory just to fit in the system for I had not been naturally sucked in the system. The congregation is dominated by the young people, majority young women of middle age. Full of energy, this group can stand for long, dance and clap with the tune of the gospel songs booming from the speakers installed around the walls of the church. The preacher, a middle aged man with white attire, symbolizing the holiness of the place, arrives with touching and rendering tunes of the Don Moen’s popular song, ‘arise’. The preacher’s attire contradicts the general attire of the congregation, which seems to be more contemporary and have no clear cut significances of resemblance with each other. The preacher seems to understand his audience well and therefore considering his choice of the topic of the day, dating and Christianity. How well would the preacher show the concern of the modern youth? This is why the preacher would not be irrelevant enough to choose topics like slavery, which were very relevant 50 years ago. In those years, the gospel pierced the soul and when they were laced with social injustice of slavery and racism. But today in this church, full of post- slavery people congregation, gospel edges here is shaved, sanded and smoothened such that the gospel only tickles rather pierce. In between every comment, that is, approximately after every five minutes, the sermon is refreshed with gospel music from contemporary gospel singers like Kirk Franklin. After some time, the whole church is immersed with songs of praise. The choir on the stage, the dancers streaming in one by one with their dancing skills to prove their ability to make the word of God enjoyable rather than a boring affair. The preacher moves with the congregation in response to the rapturous songs coming from speakers. He moves around the church in order to make his work lively and keep everybody attentive. Every row is fitted with a microphone and in addition there is a wireless microphone that goes around just in case there existing one develops technical problems. The people are expected to ask questions and make contribution to the topic of the day. Some take that opportunity to give their testimony, and some confess. Then time comes when the congregation receives blessings one by one from the preacher. People queue and pass by preacher’s section one by one, with stewards directing people. The preacher touches the fore head of individuals with some cold- like ice to bless the individual members of the congregation. My turn comes and I do the necessary, for nobody is left out. For some visitors like me, they find it difficult to follow all these doctrines and their being new in the church could easily get noticed. When the blessing were complete, the church goes quiet and the preacher announces that it is time to reflect on our past mistakes and sins and ask for forgiveness. This takes five minutes and the during this period the church goes silent that the only sound heard is from a hissing sound friction of the wind and the roof the church. The second last phase of the service involves group discussions, where people form temporary groups to learn from each other’s personal experience. This is part of the interactive process of the service. This process takes approximately fifteen minutes. The people seem comfortable with this session unlike the guests like us. Before I noticed that the groups were random, I could not identify myself with a group, since I did not want to be noticed. The collection of the offerings from the congregation begins after the group discussions. This process goes faster since small bags are circulated around for people to deposit their offerings. This is done as the slow and soft music streams from the speakers. Finally the preacher calls for any visitors to rise and introduce themselves. About nine visitors stand up and do the introduction one by one, giving their personal experience with the church. With this the preacher ends service as the music continues. The service is well planned with a clearly laid down procedure and role of the preacher in guiding the congregation. The choir does their part as they keep the congregation on toes with their emotional songs. In contrast to the traditional churches, the program is completely redefined to suit the composition of the congregation. The format is laid such that the music forms major part of the service. This is meant to contain the completely volatile group of this congregation, the youth. Then youth have proved to want something different from their fathers and forefathers (Gladys, 1993), ranging from music to sermon methodology. This is why the contemporary music of Kirk Franklin took most part of the service. The church seems to respond to the well to the youth’s social needs unlike their fathers who had experienced racial discriminations and therefore used the church as a podium to fight social injustice. The choice of dressing code here is also contemporary. The youth are known to be opposed to uniformity of the anything as they chose to explore and anywhere that seems to preserve their identity is definitely the best option (John 2003). The building is symbolic such that the roof top is fitted with a big cross. It is also oval, such that the preacher moves around at the center of the congregation. However, in contrast to the traditional design of the church buildings, this church is fitted with television sets, an effort to reach a bigger audience who could not reach the church. It is also a form of advertising the church such that more converts could turn out. The church does not offer any special service like Sunday school. This is visibly because the composition of the congregation is middle aged groups who are basically not yet parents. Another area which is completely different with other traditional churches is the Holy Communion. Here the Holy Communion is not part of the service, and instead the preacher does only the ritual of blessing by cold water smeared on the forehead. This is in line with this church’s doctrine. Conclusion The modern church has gone under several evolutions with new church doctrine being introduced in place of the traditional ones (Job, 1999). However the changes that have occurred have been fused into the system. Despite all these changes, there are some doctrines which have been retained. The rituals of blessings using water dates back to the bible history where the Jewish used to be blessed with the churches (Thomas, 1995). The symbol of cross, signifying the cross used in the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, make the church complete with the tradition similar to all traditional churches like the roman catholic with all their churches having crosses. The preacher order general observation of silence just like it is observed in the Roman Catholic Church, meant for the congregation to ask for forgiveness in silence (Joe, 2001). It is therefore clear that even though things have changed significantly, the common doctrines of the churches are still observed. Thomas, J. 1995: The legacy of African- American Church, New York, Revolution Publishers Joe, A. 2001: What’s Impressive about Briarwood Presbyterian? California, Religion Development Printers Rose, L. 1998: The Primacy of Preaching- How can we do it differently? Denver,Holy Publishers. Job L. 1999: Six Goals for Every Preacher- Bettering your approach as a preacher, New York, Revolution Publishers John F. 2003: Contemporary Church Vs Traditional one, Atlanta, Biblical Printers Gladys P. 1993: Do you have a favorite Book of The Bible, Atlanta, Biblical Printers

The Decameron by Giovanni Boccaccio Essay -- Literary Analysis

â€Å"You are to look upon this grim opening as travelers on foot confront a steep, rugged mountain: beyond it lies a most enchanting plain which they appreciate all the more for having toiled up and down the mountain first,† (Boccaccio, pg. 7). The Decameron, by Giovanni Boccaccio embodies this verse. Until this time period, religion guided society like an invisible hand pushing everyone along. Throughout many generation religion evolved. From polytheism to monotheism, form idols to churches, people leaned on the virtues that religion presented, and led their lives accordingly. Everyone learned to submit themselves to the Church as they were too scared to pave their own virtuous way. Instead of using the Church as a guide they surrendered themselves completely becoming monkeys in the face of emperors. The Pope was no longer a messenger of God rather he was God-like himself for he too held scores of lives in his hands. The power that the sacred rulers grasped deceived them of their true abilities; they now acted as if they were gods despite their limiting human capabilities. The Popes now used â€Å"virtues† to elicit supremacy, opposed to using authority as an instrument to spread morality. Giovanni Boccaccio wishes to lift the veil and expose the church for what they have become. Using Satire he exposes the true actions of those in command. Though the road in revealing the corruption of the Church is jagged and rocky it allows for a new beginning. It allows everyone to discover â€Å"a most enchanting plain.† While many praise Boccaccio for his disclosure of the Church there still are menacing effects of such an action. He boots the Church off of its pedestal leaving an open seat for the next ruler. While the church may have been crooked Bo... ...ety to a better world was convoluted and crooked. Boccaccio laid out many examples and effects that the church had on civilization in hopes to overcome the fraudulent society that everyone depended on. Life is about living. Human competence has the ability to meld the physical world and the spiritual world into one boulevard. Life is about experiencing freedom. Freedom to control one’s actions, freedom to choose one’s leader and freedom to grow past difficulties. In The Decameron, Boccaccio tried to give everyone their freedom back. Bibliography Alchin, Linda. "Middle Ages." Middle Ages. Online. September 20 2006 16 December 2010. "Avatar ." Avatar; The Journey Continues. Online. 2010 16 December 2010. Boccaccio, Giovanni. The Decameron. New York: Oxford, 1998.

Case Study Sickle Cell Disease

1. Sickle cell disease is a group of disorders that affects hemoglobin, the molecule in red blood cells that delivers oxygen to cells throughout the body. People with this disorder have atypical hemoglobin molecules called hemoglobin S, which can distort red blood cells into a sickle, or crescent, shape. SCD affects millions of people worldwide, particularly those with African, Spanish, Mediterranean, and Indian ancestry.Some 120,000 infants are born with SCD every year worldwide. In the United States, approximately 1 in 500 African-Americans and 1 in 1,200 Hispanic Americans are born with SCD. Some 2 million Americans including about 10 percent of the African-American population carry one gene for SCD, the â€Å"sickle cell trait.† 2. People without a spleen or those who have a spleen that is nonfunctioning are at an increased risk for developing infections, these infections can be fatal if not treated immediately.3. Anemia resulting from a failure in blood cellAnemia associa ted with an excessive destruction of red cells4. SCD can be very painful and to help control the pain the physican would need to know how much pain the client is in and if he is in pain did he want something to help control the pain.5. Yes V.M. is be adequately oxygenated.6. V.M. low Hgb could be causing the S.O.B. usually shortness of breath with anemia is caused upon exertion so I think there are some other underlying conditions causing his SOB.7. Increased pulse, crackles in the lungs, increased B/P, increased respirations/respiration pattern.8. I would expect the MD to do a chest xray, place client on strict I&O, give him lasix, admit for observation, order teds, place on low sodium diet.9. Normal NA 137 K 4.9 WBC 4.3 Platelets 208High Bun 27Creatinine 2.7- problem with the kidneys or kidney function Phospate 4.7- controlled by kidneys, evidence of a kidney problem Cl 110- can be caused by certain kidney diseaseLowCO2 16 Changes in your CO2 level may suggest that you are losing or retaining fluid, which causes an imbalance in your body's electrolytes.CO2 levels in the blood are influenced by kidney and lung function. The kidneys are mainly responsible for maintaining the normal bicarbonate levels. Ca 8.2- kidney decease can cause a decrease in CaHBG 7.8 can be caused by Kidney problems, SCA, bleeding etc Hct 20.9 can be cause by anemia, destruction of red blood cells and over hydration10. Furosemide – Furosemide is a loop diuretic (water pill) that prevents your body from absorbing too much salt, allowing the salt to instead be passed in your urine. Furosemide treats fluid retention (edema) in people with congestive heart failure, liver disease, or a kidney disorder such as nephrotic syndrome. This medication is also used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Methylprednisolone – is used to treat conditions such as arthritis, blood disorders, severe allergic reactions, certain cancers, eye conditions, skin/kidney/intestinal/lung diseas es, and immune system disorders. It decreases your immune system's response to various diseases to reduce symptoms such as swelling, pain, and allergic-type reactions. This medication is a corticosteroid hormone.Ceftriaxone is an antibiotic used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections. This  medication is known as a cephalosporin antibiotic. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria. 11. Sickle Cell Disease clients often receive blood transfusions on an ongoing basis, making it more important for the them to receive the best match for their bodies. When they receive blood that is not the best match, their bodies may begin to slowly reject the blood.If they cannot receive blood safely, they may die. It is important that the labs knows it is a sickle cell patient, follow all facility protocols ( monitoring Bp, temp, pulse, as recommended), monitor the patient closely for signs and symptoms of rejection. 12. Often SCD patients are looked at as drug seekers and are not provi ded with the pain relief that they need. It’s important to remember not to stereotype patients and believe what they tell you their pain level is.13. Have him follow up with a cardiologist about his heart murmur, incourge hime to work on his B/P control with diet and exercises. Education on what can trigger Sickle cell crisis temp, smoking etc. Encourage a low sodium diet, weigh daily if more than a 2 lbs gain in a day notify his physician, Teach causes of fluid volume excess and/or excess intake to patient or caregiver. Provide information as needed regarding the individual's medical diagnosis (e.g., congestive heart failure [CHF], renal failure). Explain or reinforce rationale and intended effect of treatment program. Identify signs and symptoms of fluid volume excess. Explain importance of maintaining proper nutrition and hydration, and diet modifications. Identify symptoms to be reported.

Essay on The Obesity Epidemic - 1247 Words

How would you feel if I told you that there is no one state with an obesity rate lower than 20%? Take this information and compare it to twenty years ago when every state had an obesity rate lower than 15%. Obesity has become not only the number one cause in death, but according to David Zinczenko, editor-in-chief of Men’s Health and author of â€Å"Don’t Blame the Eater†, it is the number one cost in health care with numbers rising well over 100 billion dollars a year (196). There are many people we could blame, such as the food industry or the government, but before we start pointing fingers elsewhere, individuals need to stand up and take personal responsibility for their own actions and health. Either way it is evident a†¦show more content†¦However, unlike the view of David Zinczenko, Radley Balko, a senior editor at Reason and author of â€Å"What You Eat Is Your Business†, takes a strong clear stance that Americans are to blame for their ow n actions and health. Balko illustrates that the government is spending millions of dollars on changing the distribution food, such as what is being sold in school cafeterias and calling obesity a nationwide health crisis. He expands this idea by stating, â€Å"A society where everyone is responsible for everyone else’s well-being is a society more apt to accept government restrictions† (159). Basically, he believes this is a misguided resolution in the fact that government should not be concerned with intervening and restricting the food options for the entire population, but should be with individuals harboring responsibility for their own health. Balko also emphasis’s the idea that people who are obese should be paying the price. Radley Balko expands on this by explaining if obese clients are not being charged a higher premium and the government pays for their medications, what is the incentive for them to make healthier decisions regarding their food? He sta tes, â€Å" if policy makers want to fight obesity, they’ll halt the creeping socialization of medicine, and move to return individual Americans’ ownership of their own health and well-being backShow MoreRelatedThe Epidemic Of The Obesity Epidemic Essay1488 Words   |  6 PagesIntroduction The World Health Organization (WHO) defines obesity as the excessive accumulation of fat that puts the person’s health at risk (Lenzi et al., 2015). The prevalence of obesity has increased worldwide over the past three decades. According to Holtz (2016), obese people have outnumbered the undernourished, with the World Health Organization estimating that 1.9 billion adults are overweight, out of which about 600 million are obese. Given the recent trends, it is estimated that 1.12 billionRead MoreObesity : The Obesity Epidemic1509 Words   |  7 PagesThe Obesity Epidemic What is obesity? 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Obesity is described by Boero (2012) to have exploded in meaning Post- World War II to be more than a â€Å"physical flaw.† Weight concern became an idea that debuted in magazines mainly targeting women and emphasizing â€Å"natural thinness.† The disappearance of the normally worn â€Å"corset† and popularization of the typical 1920’s â€Å"boy catching† flapper, increased the production of diet products and the