Health and Fitness Ministry Mission Statement “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.” Hosea 4:6 The Health and Fitness Ministry of Harvest Assembly Baptist Church is to: Promote a healthier lifestyle through education Self awareness and encouragement

INTRODUCTION

…….BY WHOSE STRIPES YE WERE HEALED

1 Peter 2:24

The Health and Fitness Ministry was established on October 23, 2003. it was a vision of Lorraine Hall-Petty, Linda Wilson and Pastor Johnnie L. Abram. The Lord had put on Linda's heart to do something at the church to help other women become aware of the increase of breast cancer in African American women when Lorraine called. They discussed health issue dilemmas and how many people at HABC were being affected and thought it would be wonderful to have a health ministry at harvest. The ministry was then discussed with Pastor Abram who wanted to add a fitness and nursing ministry.

The purpose of this ministry is to bring attention to all the various health and fitness issues that affect our temples and what we can do in the spiritual realm as well as the natural to avoid them. The ministry will educate the HABC family and the community through informational flyers on health issues, seminars, health fairs, distribution of give-a-ways such as pencils, pens, and water. We will also highlight the health issue of the month.

On May 8, 2004, The Health and Fitness Ministry had its 1 st Annual Health and Fitness Fair. This event showcased a variety of health care organizations such as the Arthritis Foundation, Juice Plus + and the American Cancer Society. Testing was performed by the Northern Virginia Aids Ministry, Fairfax County Fire Department, Northern Virginia Resource Center For Deaf and Hard of Hearing Person and Ms. Gloria Dean. There also were fitness demonstrations by Tri-John Fitness, US Tennis Association and Word-A-Cise by Gloria. Community services were also exhibited. There were games and give-a-ways for all. It was a full day packed with something for everyone. Many participants left the fair with more correct detailed information, insight, knowledge and awareness about health and fitness issues.