Saturday, 14th September 2024, marked another successful day for Downham SDA Church. Following many prayers and planning meetings, department leaders working together under the guidance of the Personal Ministries and Health Ministries departments were granted permission by Bromley Council to deliver a health outreach programme outside the Churchill Theatre, close to the bustling shopping area.
The day was a tremendous blessing, crowned with glorious sunshine. The community, in large numbers, benefited from health checks, blood pressure tests, height and weight measurements, and medical advice from Dr Lendor and other medical professionals. Pathfinders and church members distributed books, magazines, and leaflets to passers-by, including information about Cornerstone Counselling.
An interactive feature of the day was the community comments board, where members of the public were invited to reflect on and respond to the question: “What does being in good health mean to you?” This led to numerous meaningful conversations about health. In response to the question, one person said that good health meant “...being able to live to a ripe old age with God.” Another remarked, “...being in the right state of mind.”
The Praise Team and individual singers, with microphones and a sound system, provided a musical backdrop to the programme, while other volunteers moved through the crowd in the shopping centre, offering encouragement and a friendly approach, witnessing to and engaging with people seeking both spiritual support and better health.
The Personal Ministries team provided hot food, with some members of the public commenting that they had never tasted anything like it before. Team leader Aneta Palmer, who shared in the community’s joy, was thrilled to see the blessings unfold. Alongside the food, a table displaying vegetables, fruit, and other healthy items such as organic honey was set up for anyone to take, free of charge. This offering was warmly received by the community.
Eudeane Joseph, the Health Ministries leader, celebrated the success of this outreach programme and is planning similar future events. Truly, God has endowed each of us with talents and gifts that were put to use that day. Under the leadership and guidance of Pastor Steve Roberts, who coined the phrase “Go Downham! Inspired for Mission,” Downham SDA Church will continue to proclaim the gospel message to the people of Bromley.