PALM BEACH COUNTY CHURCHES COME TOGETHER IN MISSION TO THE CITIES' TOTAL HEALTH EXPO 2015

by Abel Paulín
At the beginning of 2015, Palm Beach County churches and pastors came together to make a difference under the General Conference theme of Mission to the Cities. The strategy evolved into inviting county residents to a major impact event, preceded by a Season of Service and followed by public evangelism in area churches.
Season of Service
Many members, including youth, began using the Season of Service devotional book by Southern Union Conference Ministerial and Evangelism Director Roger Hernandez. This book contains 40 devotional readings and many ideas for service. Churches and individuals implemented these ideas, such as: painting houses, feeding people, thanking police and public servants, cleaning public areas, and collecting clothes for thrift stores.
From the pulpit, pastors encouraged members and guests to get involved by distributing invitations to the upcoming Total Health Expo 2015 and praying for the Holy Spirit to impact the city. Several media outlets attended a press conference, and funds were allocated for radio and television advertising.
Impact Event
More than 3,000 people gathered February 28 for the Sabbath emphasis on spiritual health and family, presented by speakers Des Cummings Jr., José Rojas, Roger Hernandez, Ivan Omana, and singing artist Steve Green.
Early Sunday morning, more than 300 volunteers were on hand to assist with Total Health Expo 2015. After the early morning 5K Race/Walk, Des Cummings Jr. presented a devotional on CREATION Health principles which was followed by seminars, exercise demonstrations, and other activities on the main stage. Palm Beach County Mayor and Commissioner Shelly Vana and Wellington Mayor Bob Margolis welcomed the attendees.
National and local organizations including Walmart, Walgreens, Florida Atlantic University, Mission Medical Center, Health Care District of Palm Beach County, Florida Department of Health in Palm Beach County, FoundCare, OneBlood, and Diabetes Coalition of Palm Beach County partnered with the Expo to offer free health screenings and services. The various healthcare providers performed more than 1,000 tests, and approximately 2,500 people visited the 100 exhibits.
Public Evangelism
As a follow up to Total Health Expo 2015, 20 churches in Palm Beach and Broward Counties held evangelistic meetings. Many people were baptized as a result of these meetings, and more individuals are studying and preparing for future baptism as reaping efforts continue.