Meridian Baptist Church joined Live Well San Diego as a recognized partner on September 22, 2013. The congregation has embraced Live Well San Diego principles by changing their lifestyles through healthy eating practices and increased physical activity. Changing the culture within, Meridian Baptist Church has been an early partner of the Live Well San Diego Building Better Health initiative and officially adopted a Health and Wellness Ministry for the congregation in 2013, including a walking prayer group, inclusion of fruits and vegetables on church materials advertising meals, and an emphasis of additional wellness priorities. At the 2011 National Day of Prayer, Meridian Baptist Church joined in prayer for East County and its varied health challenges, discussing 3-4-50 and the disproportionate rates of the four leading causes of death in the African American community. Senior Pastor Reverend Rolland Slade is not only a leader of his church but also a leader in his community, participating in the 2013 Resident Leadership Academy, hosting the 100 Congregations for Million Hearts® national initiative of U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to prevent 1 million heart attacks and strokes by 2017, and leading by example by making healthier personal choices. Meridian Baptist Church demonstrates an ongoing partnership and commitment to the County’s Live Well San Diego initiative by supporting the vision of healthy, safe and thriving communities.
