As part of their evangelism program for 2004, members of the Sacramento Southgate Church, under the leadership of Women’s Ministry coordinator Rose Briley, organized a health expo at Florin Mall in Sacramento on Sunday, May 16.
“We wanted maximum exposure beyond our own community of churches,” said Dick Devitt, pastor of the Sacramento Southgate church.
Following a link on the Internet, Briley was able to contact Dorothy Nelson Moore from Weimar Health Institute to help with the event and provide NEWSTART material. NEWSTART is an acronym and refers to elements of healthy living including: nutrition, exercise, water, sunlight, temperance, air, rest, and trust in God.
The Southgate Conquerors Pathfinder Club gave marching drill demonstrations and assisted in the various health exhibits. Pathfinder Nicole Wills was assisting with the sunlight exhibit when a man asked her, “What does Pathfinders have to do with sunlight?” This led to an explanation of the purpose of Pathfinders and a request for church information.
Xavier Renteria, a professional chef, hosted the nutrition display and delighted participants with an array of vegetarian food samples including a special “fruitcake” — a variety of delicious fresh fruit arranged in tiers and topped with a beautifully carved pineapple. Oscar DeMarchi and the Sacramento Southgate Spanish Company hosted an exhibit in Spanish.
Other highlights of the event included massage therapy by Hosea Hightower, carotid ultrasound testing performed by Dr. Ken Nelson, CPR classes offered by certified instructor Kim Brooks, a health age analysis, cholesterol testing and blood pressure screening, and children’s safety demonstrations by the Sacramento Fire Department.
In addition to the demonstrations, 1,300 copies of the book, The Passion, were handed out to shoppers as they browsed the displays. Many requested more information about the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
Follow-up plans include a cooking school in June; a fall spiritual revival series featuring Bobby Mitchell, director of regional affairs for the Pacific Union; stop-smoking classes; and another health expo.
