Pictured from Left to Right: Leaders of the Smith Mountain Lake Charge, Pastor Mary Hancock of Mt Zion UMC, Pastor Ricky Scott, Patricia Craft, and Brenda Craft (seated) of New Ridgeway UMC
It has always been the practice of the congregation of Mt Zion UMC in Penhook VA to support one another in prayer whenever anyone in the church or community was sick or in need. While setting goals for mission early in 2024, the congregation prioritized taking of their own health so they could be strong enough to care for others in the community. When Pastor Mary Hancock asked, “how many of us have diabetes?” over half of the congregation raised their hand. Thus began a focus on healthy living, extending even to adjusting the menu at church celebrations. “We feel better because we’re eating better,” said Pastor Hancock.
Members of Mt Zion UMC include diabetes friendly dishes alongside traditional dishes at their Christmas Celebration 2024, including NIcholas Hancock’s popular chicken and rice soup.
Members at their sister church in the Smith Mountain Lake Charge, New Ridgeway UMC in Pittsville, VA have been meeting up for several years at 6 a.m. on weekday mornings to walk and pray together. Organizer Patricia Craft said, “we’re evangelizing, we’ve got to keep our feet safe, and God sent us a podiatrist!” Combining their commitment to encouraging spiritual and physical health, Patricia Craft and Brenda Craft organized a Diabetes Health Seminar at New Ridgeway UMC with podiatrist Dr Pink Wimbish for the Pittsville community. They took their inspiration from Romans 10:13b-14,
“Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in?
And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard?
And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?
And how can anyone preach unless they are sent?
As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!”
Next steps for supporting healthy living at Mt Zion UMC include hosting regular community meals for seniors. Each gathering will include an educational presentation on healthy living, light exercise, a healthy meal free of charge, and time for friendly games like Bingo and Po-ke-no. Next steps for New Ridgeway UMC include offering quarterly healthy living educational presentations at church led by local professional. Upcoming programs will focus on mental health and healthy eating.