12 Jun 2025, 21:19Sarah Lubanga, President, Area 6D Community Ministries Federation
Hanwell Adventist Church Inaugurated as Centre of Hope, Health and Healing
On Sabbath, 10 May, Hanwell Seventh-day Adventist church celebrated a significant milestone with its inauguration as a Centre of Hope, Health and Healing (CHHH). This joyous occasion marked the culmination of nearly two decades of community service and spiritual outreach, guided by the belief that “we can do all things through Christ” (Philippians 4:13).
The CHHH initiative was spearheaded by Pastor Dr Michael Mbui, Discipleship Champion, whose humble and tireless leadership played a pivotal role in Hanwell’s journey to CHHH status. His guidance has served as a unifying force, inspiring ministries and community initiatives across the board.
The event began with an impressive display by the Area 6D Pathfinder Drum Corps, an amalgamation of several churches in 6D led by Dalia Campbell, Elder Ray, and John William. Their performance set a festive tone, drawing admiration from all present. Distinguished church and public dignitaries were in attendance, acknowledging the church’s outstanding work in promoting community wellness and cohesion.
Church Leadership and Recognition
Keynote speaker Dr Kirk Thomas, President of the South England Conference (SEC), reminded the congregation that Christ’s commission is one of service and humility – not politics. He encouraged Hanwell to embrace a spirit of acceptance and love for all people. Sharon Platt-McDonald, Director of Health, Community Services, and Women’s Ministries at the British Union Conference, praised Hanwell for exceeding the CHHH criteria through years of selfless service.
SEC Community Services Director Pastor Nerine Barrett acknowledged the church’s impact, especially during crises, highlighting donations that reached disaster-stricken areas including Ukraine, Russia, and the Caribbean. Area 6D President Pastor Berhanu Tsehaye encouraged Hanwell to continue its mission of good works.
Public and Health Sector Endorsements
Though unable to attend, MP James Murray sent his best wishes, with Cllr. Dr Shahbaz Cheema officiating the ribbon-cutting. Dr Cheema also offered free phlebotomy training to UK-based Adventist members, complementing the CHHH’s focus on health empowerment.
Stephanie Leane, Ealing Community Champion, and Sarah Lubanga, Community Champion at Hanwell, were commended for integrating local health initiatives into the church. Health professional Gloria Simon lauded Hanwell’s support for diabetic patients under NHS programmes, noting marked improvements in lifestyle and health outcomes.
Community Outreach and Health Impact
Hanwell church’s community outreach began in earnest around 2006 with programmes like the ‘Mela Project’ and senior citizen services. Departments worked collaboratively to reach hundreds of locals annually – especially during multicultural events that attracted participants from diverse backgrounds.
Health initiatives have included blood pressure checks, BMI monitoring, diabetes management, and nutrition training. Special sessions were held on first aid, emergency response, vegan cooking, and lifestyle changes. These initiatives have led to significant health improvements among participants, including reduced cholesterol and BMI.
The church has also collaborated with various entities: Hanwell2Hanwell since 2016, Neighbourly since 2020, and numerous retailers and charities such as Trussell Trust, Felix Project, and FareShare. These partnerships facilitated food distribution, training opportunities, and community engagement.
Training and Development
Over the years, Hanwell has successfully trained community members in food hygiene and public health. In 2016, 35 individuals, including directors from the Ealing Food Bank, received Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH) Level 2 certification through church-facilitated programmes.
Such efforts demonstrate Hanwell’s commitment to equipping people with skills and support, often in partnership with Dr Cheema’s Maxis Healthcare and other community stakeholders.
A Future Built on Faith
The celebration concluded with a vote of thanks by senior citizen Myrtle Dehaney, who praised God for what CHHH represents – a testimony of faith, resilience, and God’s enduring guidance. Pastor Michael and Elder Dukal Daley commended the departments for their teamwork, while Dr Kirk Thomas offered a dedicatory prayer, committing the church’s future to God.
As Hanwell continues to minister to its community, its recognition as a CHHH serves as both a symbol of past achievements and a foundation for greater impact ahead.
On Sabbath, 10 May, Hanwell Seventh-day Adventist church celebrated a significant milestone with its inauguration as a Centre of Hope, Health and Healing (CHHH). This joyous occasion marked the culmination of nearly two decades of community service and spiritual outreach, guided by the belief that “we can do all things through Christ” (Philippians 4:13).
The CHHH initiative was spearheaded by Pastor Dr Michael Mbui, Discipleship Champion, whose humble and tireless leadership played a pivotal role in Hanwell’s journey to CHHH status. His guidance has served as a unifying force, inspiring ministries and community initiatives across the board.
The event began with an impressive display by the Area 6D Pathfinder Drum Corps, an amalgamation of several churches in 6D led by Dalia Campbell, Elder Ray, and John William. Their performance set a festive tone, drawing admiration from all present. Distinguished church and public dignitaries were in attendance, acknowledging the church’s outstanding work in promoting community wellness and cohesion.
Church Leadership and Recognition
Keynote speaker Dr Kirk Thomas, President of the South England Conference (SEC), reminded the congregation that Christ’s commission is one of service and humility – not politics. He encouraged Hanwell to embrace a spirit of acceptance and love for all people. Sharon Platt-McDonald, Director of Health, Community Services, and Women’s Ministries at the British Union Conference, praised Hanwell for exceeding the CHHH criteria through years of selfless service.
SEC Community Services Director Pastor Nerine Barrett acknowledged the church’s impact, especially during crises, highlighting donations that reached disaster-stricken areas including Ukraine, Russia, and the Caribbean. Area 6D President Pastor Berhanu Tsehaye encouraged Hanwell to continue its mission of good works.
Public and Health Sector Endorsements
Though unable to attend, MP James Murray sent his best wishes, with Cllr. Dr Shahbaz Cheema officiating the ribbon-cutting. Dr Cheema also offered free phlebotomy training to UK-based Adventist members, complementing the CHHH’s focus on health empowerment.
Stephanie Leane, Ealing Community Champion, and Sarah Lubanga, Community Champion at Hanwell, were commended for integrating local health initiatives into the church. Health professional Gloria Simon lauded Hanwell’s support for diabetic patients under NHS programmes, noting marked improvements in lifestyle and health outcomes.
Community Outreach and Health Impact
Hanwell church’s community outreach began in earnest around 2006 with programmes like the ‘Mela Project’ and senior citizen services. Departments worked collaboratively to reach hundreds of locals annually – especially during multicultural events that attracted participants from diverse backgrounds.
Health initiatives have included blood pressure checks, BMI monitoring, diabetes management, and nutrition training. Special sessions were held on first aid, emergency response, vegan cooking, and lifestyle changes. These initiatives have led to significant health improvements among participants, including reduced cholesterol and BMI.
The church has also collaborated with various entities: Hanwell2Hanwell since 2016, Neighbourly since 2020, and numerous retailers and charities such as Trussell Trust, Felix Project, and FareShare. These partnerships facilitated food distribution, training opportunities, and community engagement.
Training and Development
Over the years, Hanwell has successfully trained community members in food hygiene and public health. In 2016, 35 individuals, including directors from the Ealing Food Bank, received Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH) Level 2 certification through church-facilitated programmes.
Such efforts demonstrate Hanwell’s commitment to equipping people with skills and support, often in partnership with Dr Cheema’s Maxis Healthcare and other community stakeholders.
A Future Built on Faith
The celebration concluded with a vote of thanks by senior citizen Myrtle Dehaney, who praised God for what CHHH represents – a testimony of faith, resilience, and God’s enduring guidance. Pastor Michael and Elder Dukal Daley commended the departments for their teamwork, while Dr Kirk Thomas offered a dedicatory prayer, committing the church’s future to God.
As Hanwell continues to minister to its community, its recognition as a CHHH serves as both a symbol of past achievements and a foundation for greater impact ahead.
