(RNS) — Pentecost is a profound reminder of hope, unity and action. It celebrates the moment when the Holy Spirit empowered the apostles to break barriers, share the gospel and bring healing to those in need. This message of collective purpose resonates today as we confront a critical challenge — protecting America’s commitment to global health in the face of troubling cuts to essential programs.
Throughout history, addressing diseases has been an expression of faith in action across faiths. Jesus and the disciples frequently encountered and healed those afflicted by neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), such as leprosy — a condition referenced repeatedly in the Scriptures. In Luke 17, Jesus heals 10 individuals with leprosy, emphasizing not only physical restoration but also the importance of social reintegration of the marginalized.
The U.S. government has been the world leader in providing global health programming for NTDs and other critical challenges. Over a billion people globally suffer from NTDs like leprosy, lymphatic filariasis and onchocerciasis. These diseases affect the world’s poorest populations, causing blindness, immense suffering and disability, and even death. They perpetuate cycles of poverty, yet are entirely treatable and preventable with the right resources and commitment. Until now, the U.S. has been at the forefront of the commitment to address preventable and treatable diseases.
My first experiences in public health were on the U.S.-Mexico border, working with the Presbyterian Church in Mexico to improve the lives of those in need. This foundation eventually led me to roles with organizations that implement federally funded programs, where I saw firsthand how U.S. global health leadership promotes not only health and stability but also diplomacy, goodwill and hope.
Stepping away from global health and NTD treatment in particular compromises both our American values of compassion and leadership and, for those of us who are religious, our calling to serve those in need. Program funding reductions threaten to undo decades of bipartisan progress in fighting disease and building healthier communities globally. When we withdraw support from vital health programs, we not only abandon vulnerable populations but also compromise our standing in the world. Luke 12 teaches Christians that “to whom much is given, much will be required,” and as a blessed nation, America has both the capacity and responsibility to lead global health initiatives.
America’s investments in global health represent both a pragmatic strategy and a reflection of our values. NTDs can weaken fragile states, disrupt economic growth and create instability that threatens American interests. Programs addressing NTDs and broader health challenges save lives, build stronger health systems, improve trade and diplomatic relationships, and promote global security — protecting us from disease and other threats. More than that, they embody the spirit of Pentecost, bridging divides and bringing healing and dignity to the most vulnerable.
Cutting these programs diminishes our global influence and abandons the Christian principles of compassion, stewardship and service that have historically informed our nation’s best moments. This Pentecost, let us reaffirm our commitment to compassion. I urge everyone who feels inspired by faith or a shared sense of humanity to take action. Contact your congressional representatives and advocate for restored U.S. foreign assistance in global health, particularly programming focused on NTDs. Remind them that addressing these challenges is not only an expression of compassion and faith but also a demonstration of America’s leadership and values.
Pentecost reminds us that collective action, inspired by hope and guided by faith, is transformative. Championing global health continues a legacy of healing and service that honors American ideals and biblical teachings. The early church, empowered at Pentecost, didn’t wait for political approval to care for the sick and vulnerable; they acted from conviction. Similarly, we must speak truth to power and insist our nation’s policies reflect our highest values.
Together, let us rise to this challenge, hold our leaders accountable and extend the hope and renewal of Pentecost to every corner of the world. For in the words of Proverbs 31:8-9, we are called to “speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves” and to “defend the rights of the poor and needy.” There is perhaps no clearer application of this principle than advocating for continued American leadership in global health foreign assistance.
(Kirsten Weeks is a global health leader and advocate with over 25 years of experience designing and managing U.S. foreign assistance programs. The views expressed in this commentary do not necessarily reflect those of Religion News Service.)
