Tamavua English SDA Church Wellness Hub Opens Its Doors
June 25, 2023, marked a momentous day for the Tamavua English Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church as they celebrated the opening and dedication of their Wellness Hub. The event was more than just a celebration of the Wellness Hub's beginnings; it was an acknowledgement of the 10,000 Toes Campaign's sponsorship in refurbishing the Kitchen, equipping it for two key objectives.
The primary goal of the Wellness Hub is to provide lifestyle intervention education programs to the people in and around the Tamavua community, aiming to help them make informed health decisions for themselves and their families. Its secondary mission is to offer healthy cooking classes, health juices, and exercise programs, facilitating a holistic approach to health in the Tamavua community.
As a venue dedicated to hope and healing, the Wellness Hub is positioned to promote comprehensive health in line with Jesus's healing mission. The church took this step in response to a significant health concern - the prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Fiji.
The event, organized by the Tamavua English Church and hosted at their church hall, was attended by a diverse group, including representatives from 10,000 Toes Fiji, health leaders from different churches, the Tamavua church pastor, elders, and members. With over forty participants, the guest speakers included Dr. Akuila Tabuavou, the Fiji Mission Health Director, and Jona Nawaqavou, representing George Kwong from 10,000 Toes.
Dr. Akuila Tabuavou voiced concern over NCDs' toll in Fiji. "These diseases have been the major cause of deaths in Fiji," he shared. "That's why the opening of the Wellness Hub, which promotes whole-person health and empowers individuals and families to make healthy choices, is a welcome occasion." He added, "The Wellness Hub aligns perfectly with the strategic objectives of the Fiji Mission under the Health Pillar."
In George Kwong's message, delivered by Nawaqavou, he highlighted the Wellness Hub's role as a centre for health and healing. "Today we see another milestone in this journey of Wellness here in Tamavua, Fiji, and across the TPU Region," the message read. He also announced plans to create 24 more wellness hubs across the Trans-Pacific Union Region by year-end.
The event was also an occasion to express gratitude to the 10,000 Toes Campaign for sponsoring the renovation of the kitchen, and preparing it to offer healthy lifestyle programs and cooking classes to the community of Tamavua.
Numerous attendees shared their enthusiasm and thoughts about the event. Head Elder Tom Vakamocea said, "Tamavua has a special calling at such a time as this - a church on a hill to be a beacon of light and hopes to our community." Health Leader Mary Wong echoed these sentiments, "I believe God was preparing the church in Tamavua to be equipped for the task ahead of us."
"I am excited about the activities that will be taking place in the Wellness Hub and want to be involved," shared Lidia Alcala, an eager participant. Jona Nawaqavou, the 10,000 Toes Lead Ambassador, expressed his excitement about promoting the Hub on the radio, "I am excited to know the plans for the Wellness Hub so that I can advertise it on the Live Talk Back Show."
The event also saw heartfelt thanks from Jessie Takali, the Church Treasurer, who stated, "Thank you, it was an unforgettable time." And George Kwong expressed his congratulations, "Congratulations Tamavua English church for catching the vision… Thank you health leader and Tamavua 10,000 Toes team of ambassadors for making this happen."
The launch of the Tamavua English Wellness Hub represents a commitment to improving community health and happiness. Through the Hub, the Tamavua English SDA Church aims to carry on the healing mission of Jesus, offering an avenue for healthier living to its community.