Faith in Motion: Adventist Church Brings Together 130 Runners in Cayey to Promote Holistic Health

Cayey, Puerto Rico — The Health Ministries Department of the East Adventist Association successfully held the third annual 5K Healthy Route. The event brought together 130 people in Cayey and continues to grow as an initiative that unites health, exercise, and Christian values ​​in the community.

With the motto “5K Healthy Route,” people from different parts of Puerto Rico arrived early to participate. Some runners traveled from municipalities such as San Sebastián, Yauco, and Yabucoa, demonstrating the reach and positive reception of the event.

Beyond a sporting competition, the main purpose of this event is to present the church in a different context, demonstrating that its mission is not limited to sharing a spiritual message, but also encompasses promoting a healthy and balanced lifestyle. The Seventh-day Adventist Church has historically emphasized the importance of holistic human care, promoting principles of physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.

As part of this vision, the church promotes the practice of the well-known “Eight Natural Remedies” or “Doctors of Health,” essential principles for a healthier life: sun, water, nutrition, exercise, temperance, fresh air, rest, and trust in God. These habits are part of a message of hope that seeks to positively impact communities.

Preparations for the event began at 5:00 a.m. and included the presence of the president of the East Adventist Association, Pastor Rodolfo Cosme. At 6:50 a.m., the official welcome was given, and Pastor Cosme offered a special prayer. The race officially began at 7:13 a.m.

The event was led by Pastor Carlos Martínez, director of the Health Ministries Department, who emphasized the importance of creating spaces that promote healthy habits and strengthen community well-being.

In the women's category, Teresa Jiménez took first place with a time of 20:33, followed by Yareixha Gómez at 22:54, and Kenia González at 26:32.

In the men's category, Ángel Cruz took first place with a time of 16:39, followed by Joyner Cruz at 16:41 and Yariel Soto at 16:52.

One of the most moving moments of this third edition was the tribute to Mateo Negrón, a member of the Maranatha Adventist Church of Cayey and a marathon runner for over 45 years. At 86 years old, the veteran runner was not only recognized for his career and example of perseverance, but he also actively participated in the event, completing the 5-kilometer course in an admirable time of 34:41 and becoming an inspiration for new generations.

The event took place amidst the characteristically cool climate of the Cayey mountain region and saw broad participation from families, runners, and community members, reflecting the growing interest in initiatives focused on holistic well-being. Pastor Carlos Martínez expressed special gratitude to the Municipality of Cayey, Mayor Rolando Ortiz Velázquez, and Roberto Ríos, Director of the Department of Recreation and Sports, for their support in the logistics and execution of the event.

He also acknowledged the collaboration of the Puerto Rico Police, whose escort was provided by Sergeant Itamara Ruiz and her entire team, ensuring the safety of the participants along the route.

He also thanked the volunteers, sponsors, and everyone who, in one way or another, contributed to making this third edition a resounding success. With initiatives like this, the East Adventist Church reaffirms its commitment to positively impacting communities, promoting not only a message of spiritual hope, but also healthy lifestyles that contribute to the overall well-being of society.