The Seventh-day Adventist Church in the Dominican Republic reached what leaders described as a historic milestone on February 15, hosting its first national 5K and 10K race along the Malecón, Santo Domingo’s waterfront boulevard.

More than 1,200 participants — including families, youth, adults, professional athletes, church members, and community guests — gathered early in the morning to support the initiative, themed “I Want to Live Healthy, Let’s Move,” which promotes healthy living, physical activity, and holistic well-being. The event exceeded expectations, drawing families, youth, seasoned athletes, community runners, and even military groups who joined the race. Participants ranged widely in age, including an 80-year-old woman who completed the 5K.

David Uribe, health ministries director of the Dominican Union and general organizer of the event, said the race was conceived as a national movement toward healthier lifestyles.

Promoting greater health awareness

“The objective of this first national race promoted by the Seventh-day Adventist Church is to create awareness for the benefit of our health, encourage habits that improve quality of life, and provide the community with a family-centered event where fellowship and camaraderie can be enjoyed,” Uribe said.

President of the Dominican Union Pastor Teófilo Silvestre the event represented far more than a sporting competition.

“This race represented a historic milestone for the Seventh-day Adventist Church in the Dominican Republic,” Silvestre said, stressing that the initiative goes beyond competition or an athletic event. “It is an invitation to transform our lifestyle and make decisions that allow us to live better and longer.”

Silvestre, who has been running consistently for more than three years, completed the 10K during the event. However, he noted that his primary focus was encouraging others along the route.

“I could have done it faster, but my assignment was to motivate participants and connect with those who are not Adventists,” he said.

Before the race began, leaders highlighted its spiritual foundation, referencing 3 John 2 and the church’s integrated message of physical, mental, social, and spiritual health.

Faith, Health, and Public Witness

National media coverage amplified the event’s impact. According to Silvestre, the race presented the church from a broader perspective. “We were able to show that we care about health and that our faith is connected to how we live,” he said.

Participants received the missionary book of the year and Priorities magazine as part of their race kits. The church’s vegetarian restaurant distributed natural juices at the finish line, and Granix food company provided products, reinforcing the lifestyle emphasis behind the initiative.

For many participants, the race was both physically demanding and deeply rewarding.

Orpha de la Cruz, women’s ministries director of the Dominican Union, said she had already set a personal goal of completing 33 kilometers during the week of the event. She ran 5K nearly every day of the week including on Thursday and 5K on Friday, and although she felt sore by Sunday, the atmosphere inspired her to take on the 10K.

“There was so much excitement that I decided to run the 10K,” she said, noting that she focused on finishing rather than timing.

Young participant Stacy Durán described the experience as challenging but joyful.

“We shared joy. It was painful at times, but we were able to complete the goal of finishing the 10K,” she said. “Take time to run every day and be ready to get moving.” She added that she looks forward to participating in the next national race.

Andrew Montilla, who placed first in the 10K category, said his training paid off and described the experience as both rewarding and motivating.

“Competing in this race was truly impactful,” he said. “The route was excellent, the atmosphere was incredible, and I’m proud of the result. I’m already looking forward to participating in the next national race.”

Francisco Contreras, executive secretary of the Dominican Southeast Conference, said the event strengthened his personal commitment to health. “It was very meaningful to take part,” he said. “It motivated me to continue exercising and to take better care of my health.”

Looking ahead

The event concluded with awards presented to 24 winners across both race categories. Organizers say the strong turnout and positive response confirm that the initiative will continue.

“We approached this as a trial, but it has clearly been a success,” Silvestre said, adding that many have already committed to participating again next year. “This initiative reflects who we are as a church — committed to promoting health, strengthening unity, and living out our faith in practical ways every day.”

The original article was published on the Inter-American Division news site.