Health, Community and Disability Training

On Friday 5th to Sunday 7th March a group of dedicated local church leaders embarked on Phase 1 of the new North England Conference Health, Community and Disability training programme in beautiful surroundings at Cefn Lea Park, Powys, Wales. The rationale behind the new award is to provide a holistic training programme to equip local church leaders serving in these areas to be effective leaders, acquire skills in delivering fun and active training programmes and understand how to manage stress.

The Sabbath morning presentation entitled Leading God’s Way delivered by Obi Iheoma former manager in the Further Education sector who is currently completing a Masters programme in Pastoral Theology at Newbold College, helped delegates to understand how leadership can be equated with servant hood as exemplified by Jesus. His afternoon presentation focused on the concept of situational leadership. Through effective use of detailed PowerPoint slides, role play and a charismatic delivery style, he led delegates through the stages of how and when to direct, coach, support and delegate to members of a team.

The Sabbath evening presentation on Stress Management by Grace Walsh, NEC Director for Health, Community and Disability ministries, was well received by delegates, as most had had a long tiring week. Not only were they able to discuss the causes and effects of stress but also had the opportunity to acquire the practical skills in managing stress by learning how to perform shoulder and back massages. The third component of the training weekend focussed on equipping attendees with skills and knowledge necessary to develop relevant, stimulating and effective training programmes. Topics included learning styles, active learning strategies and using effective questioning techniques to check understanding and learning. Delegates have the opportunity to sign up to achieve a nationally recognised qualification if they submit their completed workbooks.

Fred Evans, Health Ministries leader and an Elder in his local church commented “ My mind was really stretched this weekend”. Another delegate said “I can go away and use the skills and information given. It has inspired me”.

Phase 2 of the Health Community and Disability Leadership Award will take place in the near future and will focus specifically on Community (Roles and responsibility of volunteers; skills needed to be a volunteer); Health (Nutrition and healthy eating) and Disability (Disability, society and the law). Those interested in attending the next phase should check the NEC website for further information or contact Grace Walsh on 01159606312 or e-mail gwalsh@necadventist.org.uk.