| NEWS The whole person The whole person needs proper nutrition, exercise, the challenge to learn and grow, and an acknowledgement that this is a lifelong process. ... We acknowledge the fact that we have separated spiritual health from physical health. In Western Protestant interpretation of health and healing, the union of the body and spirit is often dismissed. Taken from Resolution #96, Health and Wholeness 2000 Book of Resolutions | Massage ministry opens doors BY MARIBEL CABRERA IBRAHIM
UMCONNECTION CORRESPONDENT  While massage may not the most obvious tool for evangelism, Brian Nutter is finding it to be an effective way to help spread healing and the Gospel message.
A member of Magothy UMC in Pasadena, Nutter is beginning a ministry of massage. He first learned about massage in the Coast Guard, where he is currently employed. While assigned to different ports of call, he made it a point to study new branches of the martial arts. When he arrived in Baltimore, at a friends urging, he decided to learn about acupuncture. The friend cancelled, but Nutter kept the appointment. There he had a revelation, realizing that he could use martial arts to help, instead of hurt, people. That realization ignited a spark of service within him, he said. Nutters exploration of healing led him to massage therapy, which is often classified in various insurance plans as new age or alternative healing, he said. He became fascinated by the cause and effect of massage. Massage is effective in reducing pain, improving range of mobility and correctly diagnosing stresses and blockages in the body that restrict circulation and energy, said Nutter, who views massage therapy as an application of Gods ability to heal. As a Christian, he prays before he gives a massage, inviting the Holy Spirit to gbwc_superusere him during the treatments. Such prayers, he said, deepen his connection with the clients and serve to direct his massage efforts. Nutter views the holistic approach of massage therapy, or concern for the whole being, as being very complementary to Christianity. Jesus did not want mere ritual from Christians. He sought our hearts so that he would be reflected in every aspect of our lives, Nutter said. In a similar way, massage therapy assesses the complete individual, instead of focusing on one body part. Nutter and his family recently returned from a mission trip in Costa Rica, where he was able to provide massage therapy for the elderly, children and others with health concerns. During this weeklong trip his team worked long hours. His wife, Rebekah, served as a translator. Even with the differences and limitations in communications, the universal language of touch and prayer was able to transmit the love and healing power of Christ, Nutter said. The couples vision for massage therapy is so strong that he will be leaving the Coast Guard in July. From a secular perspective, it seems risky: leaving a good career behind, taking care of a young child and reducing the familys income. However, both of the Nutters feel that massage therapy was a call from God and they are trusting in him to direct them. Their new venture has already begun on a positive note. A former massage instructor is sharing the costs of office space and equipment, reducing overhead expenses. Nutter has also provided massages for individuals at the South Baltimore Homeless Center, which has deepened his compassion for others, he said. With Gods direction, Nutter said, this may be the most exciting port of call yet. |
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