Fred Hardinge – Montrose, Colorado … January 15 witnessed the start of a health outreach at the Montrose Adventist Church. More than 35 people attended the first night, learning how to prepare delicious meatless meals, sampling each demonstrated dish, and being shown how easy it is for vegetarians to get protein and needed nutrients for wholesome living.

The next day, one community member who attended the event posted on her Facebook page, “I thought this sounded like a fun, free vegetarian cooking class held at our friends’ church! And it was! The food was delicious, the people were friendly, and they gave us the recipes for everything that was made! There are three more classes on upcoming Sundays. If anyone is interested in a fun evening activity, you can sign up for free with the link in the comments and I’ll see you there!”

All demonstrations, samples, and education were provided by local church members. This follows three months of praying together, training, and organization led by local church member and health ministries leader, Fred Hardinge, DrPH, RD. God richly blessed these efforts by developing a team of more than 12 people who have enthusiastically volunteered to fulfill the many roles necessary to put on a program like this. “While cooking schools are always a lot of work, many hands make it fun and enjoyable,” said Hardinge.

Three more sessions will follow during the next three Sundays at 4:30 p.m. Soups, salads, and sandwiches will be the focus of the next class, along with better breakfasts; and finally, sweet treats. A long-time church member remarked, “It was good for ‘us’ also. I learned things I didn’t know before!”

Hardinge concluded, “We praise the Lord for these blessings, and trust our humble efforts will bring honor and glory to God.”

–Fred Hardinge is Montrose church health ministries leader. Photo supplied.