Taking Care of Our Temples

ALBUQUERQUE – About a year ago, it struck me that the Seventh-day Adventist Church was commissioned with the health message and that many of us are not practicing these lifesaving health principles. At first, I felt discouraged and wished that someone would step up and start a health ministry in my church, the Albuquerque Central Seventh-day Adventist Church. However, as I began learning more about nutrition, I felt convicted and realized that I could be the person to do it. Although I am not an expert, I was willing, and that is all God asks for. 

It was terrifying to kick off the ministry because I had no idea what to do. However, I soon decided to create a survey to ask church members what their health interests were and what type of health counsel they felt the church needed. There was an overwhelming response and interest in plant-based cooking. In a short time, I conducted a presentation on plant-based nutrition, and together we learned how to cook several healthy dishes. Since then, I began an “Eight Laws of Health” series where we discuss health principles and then gather for fellowship and nutritious food. The series is ongoing, and I am excited to see where God will lead us! My goal for this ministry is to inspire people to take care of the “temples” that God gave us so that we can be healthy and able to do His work. 

The Albuquerque Central church encourages anyone in the Albuquerque area who is interested in improving their health to join us. For those outside the area, I encourage you to start your own health ministry in your church. It is important that we share the principles of health with the world, and the best way to do that is by first being examples in our own churches. You do not have to have certain qualifications or abilities, I certainly did not. God will use anyone who is willing to be used and if you have concerns, take them to God. He is more than willing to hear your prayers and worries. 

By Naiyah Van Why