Adventist Health Week begins on May 10 and this year’s focus is on freedom from addiction in all its forms.
The theme “Breaking Chains” highlights the reality that addiction goes beyond drugs or alcohol. “When we hear the word ‘addictions’ we often think in terms of drugs or alcohol, but there are many other types of addiction that fall under a category of behavioural addictions,” said Pamela Townend, South Pacific Division health coordinator. “Examples of this are food, exercise, work and shopping, to name just a few.”
To support churches and individuals during Adventist Health Week, a suite of resources is available, including:
- Breaking Chains devotional series (for personal or group study)
- Social media posts (to raise awareness throughout the week)
- Church bulletin announcements (to keep members informed and engaged)
A special video is also available to highlight the important initiatives that are supported through the health offering on Sabbath, May 17. Members are reminded that 50 per cent of the offering collected stays in their local conference to fund local health projects, while the remaining 50 per cent supports health initiatives across the South Pacific Division.
“Jesus came to set the captives free, to break the chains and offer healing to those in bondage,” Mrs Townend said. “During Health Week this year, we encourage every member to take time to work through the ‘Breaking Chains’ devotionals, either personally or in small group settings with family and friends. Being alive in Jesus is being free of all addictions.”
Resources for Health Week can be downloaded here.
