Potter's House Seeks Blood at 'For Men Only' Event

By Michelle A. Vu, Christian Post Reporter Thursday, March 29, 2007

The Potter's House has teamed up with the American Red Cross to kick off a national blood drive at its "For Men Only" conference.

Thousands of Christian men attending the event will be encouraged to either donate blood onsite or make an appointment to give blood.

The second annual national conference will take place Mar. 29-31 at the Gaylord Texan convention center. Last year, more than 4,000 were in attendance from over 15 countries.

Get Our Latest News for FREE

Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know.

Subscribe

Bishop T.D. Jakes, senior pastor of The Potter's House, explains that the need for blood among minorities is high because of their high-risk for having illnesses that require blood transfusion.

"This is a crucial partnership for our community," said Jakes, in a released statement. "Minorities are at greater risk than any other group of people for cancer, heart disease, sickle cell and birth complications – all of which may require blood transfusions.

"It is time that we work diligently, step up and help our people overcome blood born ailments by giving life," he declared.

Moreover, the percentage of "O" type blood, the universal donor, is highest among Hispanics and African Americans, explained Audrey Lundy, the manager of communications for American Red Cross to The Christian Post. Lundy said that there needs to be more education to these people groups that their blood donations are especially needed and are in high demand in the medical field because of its compatibility with anyone's blood.

"I am excited to work with the Red Cross, and know that together, we can educate the community and empower people to become donors, reflect God's redemptive work and provide a gift of life themselves," said Jakes.

The theme of the conference this year is "Men are Builders" with speakers sharing on how men can build the type of life that is pleasing in God's eyes.

"We look forward to working with The Potter's House during the Men's Conference," said Calvin Smith, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Blood Services, Southwest Region – Texas, in a statement. "It's a great honor to work with local churches and organizations that are making a positive difference in our community. Together, we can save a life."

The Potter's House is located in Dallas, Texas and is one of the best known churches in America. The megachurch boasts over 30,000 members and Jakes, its founder and senior pastor, had been named by Time magazine as "America's Best Preacher" and one of the nation's "25 most influential evangelicals."