Capital Brazilian Temple Presents First InStep Awards

By Katia Reinhert

Chesapeake Conference’s Capital Brazillian Temple in Highland, Md., recently presented awards to the top six participants in the first 13 weeks of the InStep for Life program. An initiative of the North American Division, InStep encourages members in Bermuda, Canada, and the United States to embrace a more healthful lifestyle. The program officially started January 1, however some churches like Capital Brazillian got an early start in October. 

Sixteen-year-old Robert Machado took the platinum award after having a total of 342.6 miles of aerobic activity over the 13 weeks. With the goal of top performer in sight he committed himself to add as many miles as he could through varied activities such as playing soccer, basketball, table tennis, running, and also walking. “Some days I would get tired but this healthy competition made me realize that if I could not discipline myself to do my best at a simple exercise program, I probably could not discipline my mind to be faithful to God in all things,” he said. 

Gilneia Pionatto won the gold award after walking 252 miles. Before the campaign she was always reluctant about engaging in physical activity, and even told someone “exercise is not for me.” But after hearing a testimony of another InStep participant, Pionatto decided to join the program. She credits God for giving her the resolve and commitment to walk one-hour everyday since she joined. She also lost 28 pounds two months after starting to walk. 

Capital Brazillian enrolled over 30 participants at their first group walk. Since then, participants started reaping the benefits of increased physical activity and have shared their experiences during Health Minutes segments at church motivating others to participate.

For more information, or to register your church go to www.InStepforLife.com, call (301) 891-6102, or email Columbia Union InStep coordinator Katia Reinhert at kgreiner@ahm.com.