Faith, Justice, and the Fight for Health: A Christian Response to America’s Healthcare Crisis (A Four-Part Series)

Part 1: Health Is a Social Outcome

How Social Factors and Poverty Contribute to Health Inequities

Health isn’t just about medical care—it’s about where we live, what we earn, and how we’re treated. In this opening article, Dr. DeHaven explains why social and economic conditions drive health outcomes far more than doctors or prescriptions. He explores the devastating impact of poverty, chronic stress, and neighborhood inequity on people’s bodies and lives, making a powerful case for why Christians must advocate for health justice. When we understand health as a shared social outcome, we begin to see it not only as a policy concern—but as a sacred calling. Read Part 1 >

Part 2: U.S. Health Care

How the World’s Most Expensive System Discriminates Against the Poor and Perpetuates Preventable Diseases

The U.S. spends more on health care than any other nation, yet delivers worse outcomes—especially for the poor. In Part 2, Dr. DeHaven dissects the moral failure of a profit-driven “sick care” system that prioritizes corporate gain over human well-being. He outlines how systemic barriers deny the working poor, racial minorities, and uninsured families access to basic care. With powerful data and prophetic urgency, this piece urges Christians to stand against exploitation in health care—and to remember that God does not measure justice in dollars, but in dignity. Read Part 2 >

Part 3: The Growing Mental Health Crisis

The Largely Ignored Epidemic of Chronic Mental Illness

America is in the grip of a mental health crisis—and our systems are failing to respond. Co-authored with Dr. Daniel Gutierrez, a counseling and mental health expert, this article exposes the scale of untreated mental illness, rising suicide rates, and emotional despair that now touch nearly every community. It also explores how isolation, stigma, and systemic neglect deepen suffering—especially among marginalized groups. Christians are called to be healing agents, not bystanders. This piece offers both conviction and hope: we must build communities of care that embody mercy, compassion, and mental health literacy. Read Part 3 >

Part 4: Health, Communities, and the Role of the Church

A Call to Christians to Promote Health Justice

The final article in the series turns to the Church. What can congregations do to promote health in their pews, neighborhoods, and policy conversations? Dr. DeHaven challenges Christians to see health as an expression of faith—both personal and communal. He offers practical ideas for congregational health ministries, partnerships with social services, and prophetic advocacy on behalf of the vulnerable. Rooted in Scripture and powered by love, this closing piece reminds us: the call to “heal the sick” is not metaphorical. It’s a mission we’re meant to live. Read Part 4 >