The first session of the “545 Wellness Community” accomplished its mission: It included participation — and perspiration — from church leaders all across the state.
Now, it’s time for the second session of the ministry, which is hosted by the Tennessee Baptist Mission Board’s Strengthening Gospel Leaders team. The second session begins July 6 and runs through Nov. 16.
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“We were really excited about the number of participants and about the positive results that many of them reported,” said Joe Sorah, Strengthening Gospel Leaders team leader for the TBMB. “Now, as we move into the second session, we’re looking forward to having some newcomers — along with some returnees — as we look to continue to grow the ministry.”
Nearly 200 pastors and church staff members signed up for the first session, and roughly 70% of those who were initially involved completed at least part of the program.
The Strengthening Gospel Leaders team launched the 545 Wellness Community in January with the purpose of establishing an online community for those who desired accountability for exercise.
Participants were encouraged to exercise five times a week for at least 30 minutes each period for five months. An optional goal was to lose five pounds a month for five months.
“One of the primary aims of 545 was helping gospel leaders serve well,” said Sorah. “Part of serving well is taking care of ourselves physically. It is not selfish on the part of ministers to give some time each day to care for their physical health. We should encourage our ministers to do so and our churches will benefit from it.”
Individuals who signed up were asked to report each week through the five-month period. A weekly email was sent to each participant that included encouragement, testimonies, and instruction with a link to report personal progress.
The first session, which lasted from January through May, had an average of 70 pastors who reported weekly.
Several of them reported losing weight and achieving fitness goals, Sorah said. Some were able to come off medications, thanks in large part to feeling empowered through the process of reporting and accountability, Sorah added.
One participant gave the following report:
“I have not kept up with the turning in of the weekly reports within this group. However, I did want to share that through conviction over my own sin of gluttony I have lost 37 pounds since January. I have gone down six inches in suit coat, from 64-58. (I’ve also gone) from 46 pants to 42, and from 5x to 3x in shirt size. All glory goes to Jesus!”
The 545 Wellness Community is open to all ministerial staff members and their families. Sign-up forms can be accessed at tnbaptist.org/545-wellness-community/.
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EDITOR’S NOTE — This story was written by David Dawson and originally published by the Baptist and Reflector.
