The Ignite programme included a health expo that covered all of the 8 stations promoting the NEWSTART health initiative (Nutrition, Exercise, Water, Sunlight, Temperance, Air, Rest and Trust in Divine Power).  Over 400 members of the public entered the marquee and took part in a range of enlightening activities.

Neil Blest, the BUC volunteer Health Expo co-ordinator, remarked that this was probably the biggest expo that had been conducted during his time in the role.  He worked alongside the local Ignite event team to ensure the professionalism that has become the hallmark of so many expos in the UK.  Pastor Malcolm Watson is to be commended for his planning skills and energetic drive.

The setting was beautiful, the weather bright and sunny and the energetic team exemplary.  People were flexible and were prepared to change roles where the need arose to ensure the queues did not build up and the delivery was smooth.  Students from the LIGHT Health Evangelism programme that is currently running in the North England Conference, some of whom had come from overseas to study on the 4-week programme , boosted the numbers and expertise of the volunteers on the day.  Linda and Michael two of the teachers on the course originating from Wildwood, USA, thanked God for the event and prayed that the work in the Birmingham community would be ongoing.

The work has only begun.  There is a role now for Personal Ministries, Community Services, Family Life, and Health Ministries departments across the West Midlands to take part in the follow-up programmes that have been identified as areas of need.

One 83-year-old attendee from the community was close to tears in his expression of thanks: "No one has ever done anything like this for me!" he said.  Others expressed their determination to stop smoking, take more water to drink and lose weight.  Many of those who took a neck and back massage expressed the amazing relief they experienced and the hand of 10 or so trained individuals who barely stopped their work for the duration of the event.  A much needed lunch was supplied courtesy of Judith Asare and her team to fuel the workers through the event.

The health expo models Jesus' work on earth: meeting the people wherever they were, learning of their needs and helping them.  The many prayers for the success of this event have been answered.  A heartfelt thanks is expressed to all those who prayed, contributed funds, gave time, help and expertise to make this event the success it has been.  Your continued prayers are sought for the souls who came, saw and heard and participated.  It is a blessing that we have scope through BUC News, the Messenger and the Communicator to reach God's people and engage them to participate in this work.

 [Jacqui Halliday-Bell]