This issue highlights the commitment of the Christian Journal for Global Health to being truly global in that submissions from non-Western authors dominate the issue. The uniqueness of their global influence is clear from the account of the Faith and Medicine Summit summarized by Lelei, et al. This conference focused on what it means for healthcare to be truly whole-person oriented, drawing from the African integration of spirituality and life. Research and training on the unity of physical, emotional, and spiritual dimensions in East African contexts was emphasized without compromise of scientific integrity.
Other submissions touch on a variety of issues related to global health. These include the importance of environmental contexts, healthcare workers perceptions, healthcare system structures, spirituality and its effect on mental health, and Christian faith as a driver for whole person care in global health contexts.
Voola, et al present a cross-sectional study of the association of outdoor play and manual dexterity in boys living in institutional settings in India. Mejdouli, et al present epidemiologic surveillance of the knowledge and attitudes of health professionals about measles in Morocco. Supit, et al offer a cross-sectional study of students in Indonesia which gives evidence of the protective effect of intrinsic religiosity on mental well-being and suggest incorporating faith-based or spiritual elements into student mental health programs. Jalloh, et al produced a comprehensive systematic review of the pharmacovigilance systems in several West African countries identifying gaps in legislation, enforcement, and public awareness and calling for a diverse stakeholder engagement for improved drug safely.
Several field reports highlight healthpromoting and disease preventing practices from environmental and faith-based perspectives. Zaluchu and Nazara highlight the detrimental effects of pesticide use in rural Indonesia and the need for better education regarding their use. Keku Emmanuel proposes a prayer, progress, and health model for Ghana’s majority Christian culture which emphasizes religious institutions' ability to influence social change and enhance community health outcomes. Binu Thomas reports on his observations about how faith can sustain hope and healing among the minority Christian population of India.
Four poems round out this issue. Christopher Agustin writes how our hearts and hands are the bearers of the light of God’s grace. Erap Gultian speaks of soulless healthcare. Timoleon Lianza explores the themes of other-oriented service, faith, and the divine calling to care. Crystal Lemus Torres, a doctor in training, explores the convergence of Christian faith, sacrificial service, and global health practice.
A special issue on maternal and child health is shortly forthcoming. We are gratified at the interest shown in this important area of global health and the evidence of faith-directed investigation.