Every year, the GC Medical Missionary Department designates a Sabbath in January as a Health Awareness Sabbath. These Sabbaths provide an opportunity for local churches to involve health workers from their congregations in planning a Sabbath dedicated to specific health-related themes.
This year, the theme was "Temperance." Resources were distributed in advance, allowing local churches worldwide to delve into Christian Temperance and encourage members to set health goals for 2024.
Santa Cruz, Bolivia—The vibrant city of Santa Cruz, Bolivia, radiated with warmth as it played host to the Reform Movement's National Youth Convention from January 15th to 20th. Themed "The Reset," this gathering was a beacon of enthusiasm, drawing participants from across the nation and beyond. The guest speakers were Brother Adrian Finaru, Director of the GC Youth Department, and Brother Liviu Tudoroiu, GC Secretary, who inspired and guided the attendees.
Itú, Brazil—In the second week of 2024, a vibrant assembly of 450 music enthusiasts convened at the South Brazilian Union's headquarters for an enriching musical retreat. Themed "The Reason for Praise," the event attracted dedicated music students not only from various corners of Brazil but also from the Chilean Union.
The schedule was brimming with activities, yet the atmosphere resonated with lively energy as sacred melodies echoed through the halls and among the nature outside over the course of the five-day program.
Jicamarca, Peru—On December 17, 2023, the humanitarian mission "United for You - Jicamarca 2023" was successfully carried out at the América International School in Jicamarca, a rural village in the Peruvian mountains.
Brethren from the various churches of the Metropolitan Peruvian Field lent their support to over 200 families. The services offered included: dietitian, medic and naturopathic, physiotherapy, dental, psychological, hairdressing, facial, family counseling, and welfare assistance.
Luanda, Angola—The December heat in Luanda welcomed those arriving for the long-awaited International Youth Convention, which took place from December 19-24. The theme presented was "At the Threshold of Eternity", and Brethren Adrian Finaru (Youth Department Director), Rolly Dumaguit (1st Vice President), and Manuel Henda (Regional Secretary for Southern Africa) were among the speakers.