Carrying the burden: perspectives of African American pastors on peer support for people with cancer

J Relig Health. 2014 Oct;53(5):1382-97. doi: 10.1007/s10943-013-9729-7.

Abstract

For African Americans facing advanced cancer, churches are trusted sources of support and ideal settings to improve access to supportive care. The Support Team model enhances community support for practical, emotional, and spiritual caregiving. We report on focus groups with pastors of 23 Black Churches and explore their perspective on the Support Team model for church members with cancer. Pastors describe the needs of church members facing cancer from a holistic perspective and recognize opportunities for synergistic faith-health collaboration. The results of this study indicate potential benefits of the Support Team model in Black Churches to reduce silent suffering among individuals facing cancer.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Attitude to Health
  • Black or African American / psychology*
  • Clergy / psychology*
  • Female
  • Focus Groups
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Neoplasms / psychology*
  • Pastoral Care
  • Peer Group*
  • Social Support*