This exploratory pilot study was designed to acquire a general understanding of the rationale, role, and mission of contemporary Faith-based Physical Activity and Sport Program Initiatives (FBPASPI) in Houston, TX. In-depth personal interviews, onsite facility observations, and program document examinations were conducted to answer several research questions. Purposive sampling was used to identify, contact, and interview 16 key informants of church-related recreational sport/fitness programs. The data collection instrument was a 15-question semi-structured interview guide. Content analysis and triangulation techniques were employed to examine and analyze the data. Results suggest that FBPASPI appear to be an integral part of the mission of the observed religious entities. Programs were similar in many respects with regard to their basic mission and objective(s), yet diverse with respect to funding, facilities, personnel, and program implementation. Moreover, they were also found to be more inclusive with respect to gender, age, and physical activity offerings than "muscular Christianity" oriented programs of the past. However, unbeknownst to many, there appears to be a burgeoning movement underway that has led to the development of sport, health, and physical activity initiatives in church-owned (and operated) facilities. Lee (2004) noted a rise in the link between evangelical Christianity and sport over the past few decades.
KeywordsArguably, the impetus for the creation of various church-related programs and the articulation agreements with public health departments, medical schools, and private fitness entities has emerged as a result of the increased levels of obesity in American society. According to a recent study, "More than one-third of adults and 17% of youths in the United States are obese" (Ogden, Carroll, Kit, & Flegal, 2014, p. 806). Additionally, the percentage of obese children (2-to 5-years old) is approximately 8.4%. Although these figures have remained relatively stable between 2003-2004 and 2009-2010, public health researchers maintain that the prevalence of obesity remains high and warrants continued surveillance (Ogden et al., 2014). The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey of 2009-2010 reported that more than 78% of Hispanics, 77% of African Americans, and 67% of whites were classified as either overweight or obese (NHANES, 2012). A variety of factors have contributed to the aforementioned public health crisis (e.g., poor nutritional diet, socioeconomic status, lack of exercise, technological advances, etc.). In addition, the decline in compulsory physical education offerings and rates of participation at the scholastic and collegiate levels has exacerbated the problem (Parker-Pope, 2008; Wallach, 2009).FBPASPI have become a viable delivery system and conduit for the dissemination of organized sport, health, and recreational programming. Contrary to the evening pick-up games for neighborhood youths and low organized weekend athletic contests for kids, these church-base...