“The health should be as faithfully guarded as the character” (Ellen G White).
Purpose and Practice
A global focus on wellness was highlighted during World Wellbeing Week1, observed annually during the final week of June. The initiative encourages individuals, employers, and communities to consider the many dimensions of wellbeing that contribute to a healthy and flourishing life.
Highlighting four key objectives, the World Wellbeing Week website identified the following priorities:
• Helping organisations recognise wellbeing challenges in the workplace.
• Encouraging realistic habits that support everyday wellbeing.
• Promoting open conversations about mental and physical health.
• Turning good intentions into meaningful action.
Across the world, organisations shared practical suggestions to encourage healthier lifestyles. One website, Remitly.com2, recommended simple actions such as taking a daily walk, trying a healthy recipe, spending time in nature, reconnecting with friends and family, journalling, and reviewing personal finances.
These small but intentional choices can have a positive impact on overall wellbeing and quality of life.
The Bible also presents a holistic view of health. In 3 John 1:2 we read:
“Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.”
This whole-person approach – embracing spiritual, physical, emotional, relational, and social wellbeing – is reflected in the many church and community initiatives undertaken by Seventh-day Adventist members across the British Union Conference territory.
Enhancing Community Wellness
Throughout June, reports from churches across the UK and Ireland highlighted a variety of health-focused outreach initiatives designed to strengthen community wellbeing and create opportunities for connection.
Among the activities reported were:
• Brixton Church – A Community Wellness Experience featuring health checks, interactive wellbeing sessions, family activities, and prayer.
• Cork Church – The launch of a new community food bank.
• Dagenham Eagles Pathfinder Club – Social wellbeing initiatives linked to Windrush celebrations.
• Hampstead Church – A weekly Sunday community feeding programme funded by church members.
• Portsmouth Centre of Hope – Community healthcare support through a health marquee staffed by doctors and nurses, free clothing distribution, wellness information programmes, and grocery support for local residents.
These initiatives demonstrate how health ministry continues to be a vital expression of Christian witness, addressing practical needs while sharing hope and compassion.
“Without health, no one can as distinctly understand or as completely fulfil his obligations to himself, to his fellow beings, or to his Creator. Therefore, the health should be as faithfully guarded as the character.”
Health Ministries Advisory
From 19-23 June, health leaders from across Europe gathered in Budapest, Hungary, for the joint Trans-European Division and Inter-European Division Health Ministries Advisory under the theme ‘Integrated for Health’.
“We come together with a shared calling: to serve, inspire and equip our communities to experience life in all its fullness.”
The Advisory explored the value of integrating healthcare practice, health ministry, biblical foundations for health, Spirit of Prophecy guidance, and evidence-based approaches to wellbeing.
Delegates heard reports showcasing a wide range of successful initiatives, including health camps, health retreats, health expos for adults and children, lifestyle education programmes, and community-based wellness projects.
The British Union Conference was represented by:
• Edith Samambwa – South England Conference Health Ministries Director
• Marta Machado – North England Conference Health Ministries Director
• Sharon Platt-McDonald – British Union Conference Health Ministries Director
Adventist Health Resources
The General Conference Health Ministries Department provides a wide range of resources, courses, lifestyle programmes, publications, health statements, and training materials to support individuals, churches, and health leaders in promoting healthier living.
Over the past 20 years, the BUC Health Ministries Department has also produced more than 200 pieces of health literature covering a broad range of topics related to physical, emotional, spiritual, and relational wellbeing.
Churches and individuals seeking resources for training, outreach initiatives, or personal and family wellness are encouraged to contact the BUC Health Ministries Department through the British Union Conference office.
A Prayer of Gratitude
Thank You, Lord, for the gift of life and for the abundant provisions You supply each day, enabling us to flourish in every aspect of our lives.
Help us to care for our bodies in ways that reflect our gratitude for the life You have entrusted to us.
We thank You for the selfless service of church members who volunteer their time and talents to enhance wellbeing within their communities through acts of kindness and practical support.
We are also grateful for the dedication of health professionals whose care preserves life, promotes healing, and supports recovery.
May we continue to embrace the promise of Psalm 107:20, trusting in the God who “sent forth His word and healed them.”
Amen.
1World Wellbeing Week | 24-30 June 2026 | Workplace Guide
2World Wellbeing Week 2026: Simple Ways to Boost Your Wellbeing This June, Wherever You Are in the UK | Remitly
