The Impact Hartford Health Expo took place at Bushnell Park on August 25 against the backdrop of the Connecticut State Capitol. Adventist churches from the Southern New England Conference (SNEC) collaborated to make this event possible, and it has already led to Bible studies.
Organized by SNEC pastors Michael Ulett and Valery St. Natus, with assistance from Tom Dombrowski, SNEC Health Ministries director, and other Connecticut pastors, the event is part of SNEC’s four-year plan to focus evangelism on major cities, with Hartford as the focus for 2024.
Visitors explored booths centered on the eight laws of health, enjoyed free massages and health screenings by Bethesda Medical Mission professionals, and listened to gospel music in various languages. Beverly Williams, LMT, who coordinated the massage volunteers from six different churches, expressed joy in seeing participants embrace the work. Attendees also received free haircuts and gently-used clothing, and Brian Allison, SNEC associate superintendent of schools, shared information about Adventist education. Joseph Piresson, SNEC prayer coordinator, led a prayer tent, offering spiritual support and literature. A local vegetarian food truck provided meals with free vouchers for volunteers and people experiencing homelessness.
The “Nutrition” tent, overseen by vegan chef Debra Queen from the Rockville-Tolland church, offered free citrus or berry smoothies. Queen emphasized the benefits of a plant-based diet and discussed its connection to health and longevity.
Annette, a local attendee, eagerly soaked in all the health education. “I’m glad that I came because I learned so much.” She later accepted an invitation from Dombrowski for Bible studies, and they are now meeting each week.
Please pray for Connecticut pastors and members as they plan follow-up events and share Jesus with the Hartford community.
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E. Michelle Maitland and the Southern New England Conference Communication Department
