Church program to focus on healthy eating

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Christine Grano

Updated: February 21, 2012 8:25AM

Wellspring Ministry at St. Thomas the Apostle Church is exploring the concept of healthy eating with holy intent, or mindful eating.

On Saturday, Christine Grano of Mayslake Ministries in Lombard will facilitate a discussion about healthy eating from a broader perspective, which includes the influence of spirituality and awareness of how eating impacts oneself as well as others.

“It’s not just about particular foods, but also the way we purchase and eat them and the way we intentionally take care of ourselves,” Grano said. “It’s about the effect a person’s eating has not only on their own body, mind and spirit, but also its effect on others and the community.”

The program was initiated by St. Apostle parish nurse and director of its Wellspring Ministry, Rose Grumbine.

“Our approach is always that we are more than physical beings. We are body, mind and spirit. Yes, we’ve done programs on healthy eating and knowing that alone is not enough to truly solve the problem, that as a nation, we’re overweight and eat terrible food and have related health problems,” said Grumbine.

“Society is bombarded with information about eating with a focus on fad diets and quick fixes. The concept of mindful eating, which is becoming more frequently discussed in spiritual arenas, covers a wider spectrum which acknowledges ‘the hows, whys, wheres and whens of eating’ and how it affects oneself and others,” Grano said. The discussion will include the benefits of supporting local farmers and eating seasonal produce.

Grano said there’s also an important spiritual aspect to the discussion.

“It’s about how God made our bodies and how we can take care of them and eat the best we can and still pay attention to what’s going on around us as well,” she said. “It’s really about getting in touch with how God made us to be and how God asks us to glorify ourselves in our bodies.”

The incidence of obesity is alarming, Grano said, and the cost of medical care is a burden on society. This, she said, is another way in which we “affect other people with the choices we eat.”

Grano said that she speaks from personal experience.

“I have a great history myself of struggling with eating and body concept,” she said. “It’s been a personal journey that I’ve been on. I’ve received great healing and wisdom from God, and that’s what I like to share.”

Grano said that for many people, the concept of mindful eating presents an “oh wow” moment.

“Many people who are spiritual haven’t thought about how God will help discern what’s best for them in terms of diet and exercise. Through God we can seek guidance about our own personal health,” she said.

“Healthy Eating Through Holy Intent” will be held from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday at St. Thomas the Apostle Church and is open to the public.

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