After several months of organization and hard work, the first health fair directed by the women’s ministry of the Pleasant Hill Hispanic group was held on July 1 at the Pleasant Hill church.

The health fair, under the direction of Mercedes M. Riera, consisted of the 18-day health program NEWSTART, which focuses on nutrition, exercise, temperance, rest, and confidence in God. These services, and more, were provided to more than 200 residents of Pleasant Hill and Concord, Calif. These included blood pressure exams, diabetes control information, cholesterol tests, weight control advice, physical fitness, vision testing and consultations with doctors. All services were provided free of charge. La Clinica de la Raza in Concord was also present to provide informational services.

“This is awaking the hearts of our brothers to evangelize,” said Riera. “My great desire is that health can be the road to attract many souls to Christ and to teach them that there is something wonderful in having a healthy life, but also to give them the spiritual bread that gives life.”

On the eve of the health fair, a special guest spoke. Claudia Salvago of the San José Adventist church, who is a 10-year cancer survivor, explained the complications and side effects of chemotherapy. She also spoke about how good health practices strengthen the immune system and how a healthy diet takes advantage of the nutrients God places in natural foods.

Riera’s desire, she says, is that the health fair continues each year, and that through it, many may come to know the Lord Jesus Christ who came to this world to serve and supply the needs humanity.