Dust and Breath: Faith, Health, and Why the Church Should Care about Both

Matthew T. Mathews is professor of theology at Memphis Theological Seminary.

Scott Morris
Executive Director, Church Health Center
"God created us to be whole human beings. Our bodies and spirits are one, yet the healthcare system has tried to lead the church to care only about the spiritual world. Hotz and Mathews wonderfully remind us of the theological roots of our humanity. Their message is one that every person of faith needs to hear."

Teresa Cutts
Research Director, Center of Excellence in Faith and Health, Methodist LeBonheur Healthcare
"As a former director at the Church Health Center (CHC), I am deeply impressed with how Hotz and Mathews have captured the stories of the CHC patients, staff, and culture in their book Dust and Breath. Their theological framework offers a deep, insightful, and elegant means of accurately and vividly sharing the ways that CHC staff daily integrate faith and health in their delivery of compassionate medical care."

Concordia Journal 
"Dust and Breath states the case for why the church should care about both faith and health. . . . If you are looking to broaden your theological perspective on the relationship between redemption and wellness of body, mind, and spirit this 118-page book is a relevant read. The use of case studies provides excellent insight into the theological questions associated with pastoral care of the sick. . . .  This book raises some important questions about the relationship between healthy lifestyles and a living faith."
 
Christian Scholar’s Review 
"A provocative analysis of the relationship between church life, theology, health, and social structure. Through insightful arguments and engaging accounts, the authors elucidate the relationship between physical (dust) and spiritual (breath) health, which has implications for both the innate dignity of the individual and broader social issues impacting health and social inequalities. . . . The perfect tool for inculcating students with a vision for health care as a Christian mission, founded in critical social analysis and sound biblical thought."
 
Calvin Spark 
"Through real-life stories and practical examples, this book shows how ministries can help give hope and restore wholeness to communities in amazing ways."
 
Presbyterian Outlook 
"Dust and Breath sets out a healing theology with clarity and simplicity. It would make a fine study for committees considering church and community ministries, and provides a thoughtful reflection for anyone grappling with human finitude."
 
Library Journal 
"While not everyone may be comfortable mixing faith with medicine, this kind of labor clearly answers a Gospel call, and addresses real need. This fascinating book should be rewarding reading for many pastors and church reading groups."