More than 372 people attended the Central Papua Conference (CPC) Mega Health Camp at Bautama from October 4–10, learning practical ways to improve their health through lifestyle education, physical activity, nutrition and spiritual teaching.
Organized by the CPC Health Department under the theme “Back to Eden,” the camp encouraged participants to return to the healthy lifestyle God originally intended for humanity.
CPC Health Director Anita Kup explained that the theme reflected the importance of returning to God’s original plan for human health and wellbeing.
“The theme means going back to God’s original lifestyle intended for us. Disobedience to God’s plan has caused many health problems,” Kup explained.
The camp attracted participants from rural communities, including Aroma, Kwikila, the Motuan Coast, Maria District and Rigo, providing an opportunity for people from different areas to learn about healthy living and share the knowledge with their families and communities.
The program included Step Up to Wholeness training, supported by the PNGUM, as well as sessions on natural remedies, exercise and fitness, nutrition and mental health. Medical missionary groups contributed to the natural remedies sessions, while Dr Mano, a surgeon, presented on mental health. Dr Robert Jones and Pastor Malakai Yani also shared presentations on biblical health principles.
In his presentation, Dr Jones discussed the importance of physical movement and daily activity. Referring to Genesis 3:19, which states, “In the sweat of your face you shall eat bread,” he highlighted the role of movement and labour in daily life. He encouraged participants to walk more, appreciate God’s creation and develop healthy daily habits, including habits that support good sleep and overall wellbeing.
Mental health awareness falls during the same week of camp. One of the highlights was the camp’s mental health awareness activity, which included a group boardwalk to the Bautama Mangrove Conservation area. The activity provided an opportunity for participants to enjoy the natural environment while reflecting on the importance of mental and emotional wellbeing.
The camp also received support from Sanitarium Australia, which supplied Weet-Bix and So Good milk for participants’ breakfasts. Following the camp, leftover Weet-Bix was given to students at Mt. Diamond Adventist Secondary School to help provide breakfast during their Grade 10 examination week.
During the program, several participants shared their experiences and expressed gratitude for what they had learned. They said the information had encouraged them to change unhealthy habits and wished they had learned about these health principles earlier
