Community Expo Ignites Connection and Compassion
Posted: August 18th, 2023
Under the sunlit skies of July 23rd, 2023, Ruth Seventh-day Adventist Church's parking lot transformed into a hub of excitement for its first-ever Community Expo. With Pastors Myrie and Parker leading the way, the event kicked off with prayers and an energetic Praise and Worship session, setting the stage for a memorable day.
The expo buzzed with a diverse crowd, including community and church members, who eagerly engaged with booths representing the church's diverse ministries. A warm reception awaited every visitor, complete with tote bags and keepsakes carrying the church's name—a token of the connections formed.
Beyond showcasing services and resource sharing, the heart of the expo was about building bridges with the community. The groundwork began with a neighbourhood walk on July 15th, where Pastors Myrie and Parker along with church members reached out to neighbours, kindling curiosity among newcomers to the Adventist message.
The event featured a tapestry of experiences. A Prayer tent offered solace, the Senior’s Ministry showcased beautiful embroideries, and the Men’s Ministry provided bicycle repairs. The Hospitality team delighted visitors with a spread of delicious food, fueling conversations and camaraderie.
From Youth and Pathfinder to Adventurers and more, the church's vibrant ministries were on display. The Health Department offered enlightening sessions on Diabetes Management, Naturopathy, Mental Health, and Plasma Donation. Information on real estate, mortgages and will planning was available. A professional fitness instructor even led a heart-pumping cardio workout, engaging participants in energetic fun, along with an invigorating cardio workout led by a professional fitness instructor.
The expo's impact reached far beyond its bounds. Attendees left with a deeper appreciation for the church's role in the community. Since the event, new faces have attended the church, moved by the experience to join worship services and seek Bible studies.
The success of Ruth Seventh-day Adventist Church's Community Expo was that it was based on the method of Jesus. As stated so eloquently in the book Ministry of Healing by Ellen G. White: Christ’s method alone will give true success in reaching the people. The Savior mingled with people as one who desired their good. He showed sympathy for them, ministered to their needs, and won their confidence. Then He invited them, “Follow Me.”
