Saturday 13th October 2007 saw the Grays Seventh-day Adventist Church introducing a
new and innovative idea. Instead of the normal church services; We opened the doors to
the Thurrock public for the very first Grays Community Health Fair. In the fast paced
world we live in, we don’t always take the time to consider what goes inside our bodies
and that a healthy lifestyle includes mental, physical, emotional and spiritual health. With
this in mind, the Health Fair provided a wonderful opportunity for the church to impact its
community.
“It was heart-warming to see people waiting outside before the 10 a.m. opening time, and
our volunteering medical team were able to offer efficient, friendly and professional
advice to over 60 people, who attended the event,” said Pastor Delcina Rodney, minister
of the church.
The free health checks included blood pressure monitoring and testing for cholesterol and
glucose levels, followed by a personal consultation. One of the nurses remarked, "We had
to refer several people to their G.P’s, but the case that stands out for us was the first person
who came through the doors. We had to ask them to come back for a second check later in
the day, and then sent them to see their doctor, as soon as possible”. “If we had only seen
that one person today, the event would have been worth it and we are very glad that we
were able to help." The Pastor was also on hand to offer a listening ear and a prayer to
those who needed it.
Throughout the day, DVD’s highlighting health issues such as Heart Disease, Organ
Donation and Diabetes were shown. Literature, Bibles, pens and other gifts (some donated
by the British Heart Foundation, Diabetes UK and other organizations) were distributed.
For the children, there was face-painting, drawing, crafts and interactive computer
programmes on health and for those who felt peckish; there was a healthy food-tasting
buffet. The best part of all - it was all free!
All our guests were also asked to complete a brief questionnaire about living in Thurrock
and what part they thought the church could play in improving services. Memories of the
day were captured on video by one of our IT team.
Plans are already being made for the next event, when we hope to include a qualified
Massage Therapist. Stop Smoking Seminars, healthy cooking classes and other interesting
topics are also hoped to be presented in the near future. For more information please visit
us online at www.grayssda.org.uk or email us on info@grayssda.org.uk.
The congregation would like to thank the members of the community, especially our
neighbours on Chestnut Avenue, for attending and helping to make the day the success it
was, and we look forward to continuing to serve the Grays and Thurrock community.
Community Health Fair Picture Gallery
Pastor’s Comments
