The Wellbeing initiative at St. Andrew focuses on intentionally addressing the physical, mental, emotional, social and spiritual needs of individuals to foster a thriving community.

At the heart of our faith is a God who desires abundant life for all creation (John 10:10). We understand this “abundant life” not as a static state of perfection, but as a dynamic, holistic journey toward wholeness—what we call wellbeing. At St. Andrew, wellbeing is the integrated flourishing of body, mind, spirit, and community, nurtured by God’s grace and directed toward love of neighbor and care for the world.

Key values:
• Everything is Connected: Our personal wellbeing is inextricably linked to the wellbeing of our community and the planet. We are part of the same sacred whole.
• Growth is a Process: We are always in a process of becoming. Setbacks, grief, and struggle are not signs of failure but part of the human journey, where God meets us with particular tenderness.
• We Co-Create with God: God invites us to be active partners in the healing of the world, contributing to the wholeness of our community and our neighbors.

Resources:
• The General Board of Church and Society (GBCS) – Health & Wholeness – Advocacy resources linking faith, justice, and public health
• The Book of Resolutions of The United Methodist Church (2020/2024): Contains official stances on mental health and advocacy.
• The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 for free, confidential support, 24/7

The Listening Bench offers a safe space where you can share what’s on your mind with a trained volunteer listener. This is not counseling or therapy—it’s more like talking with a caring friend who is lending an ear. This new program is offered by our Wellbeing ministry and is open to any adult, whether you’re part of St. Andrew or someone in the wider community. Stop by the Prayer Room near the west gathering space on the main level of St. Andrew on Sundays.

Annual Medical Checkup Day serves as a reminder to schedule your annual preventive visit with your family doctor to review your overall health. Regular checkups are one of the best ways to screen for potential health concerns and help ensure continued good health.

National Relaxation Day encourages people to slow down, unplug from work and electronics, and intentionally practice self-care to reduce stress.

Relax and recharge by enjoying your favorite beverage on the front porch, reading a book, listening to music, or doing any activity that helps you unwind.

World Senior Citizen Day celebrates the achievements of older adults. It's a reminder that it's never too late to pursue new goals or make a lasting impact.
Here are a few inspiring examples:
• Fauja Singh became the world's oldest marathon runner, completing his final marathon at age 100.
• Tao Porchon-Lynch returned to dancing after hip replacement surgery and was winning competitions by age 93 while teaching yoga.
• Grandma Moses began painting at age 76, and one of her works later sold for
$1.36 million.
• Colonel Harland Sanders began franchising KFC at age 65.
• Nola Ochs became the world's oldest college graduate at age 92 and later earned her master's degree.
• Leonid Hurwicz won the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences at age 90.

Bill Hamaker, a member of St. Andrew, is an assistant teacher at the Zen Center of Denver and longtime practitioner of Zen meditation. Bill will offer instruction in the areas of mindfulness, meditation and compassionate action along with an opportunity to share with one another the aspects of our mutual spiritual practice. No reservation required.

The labyrinth at St. Andrew offers a contemplative space for prayer, meditation, and spiritual reflection. Unlike a maze with dead ends and confusion, our labyrinth provides a path that leads to the center and back out again—a metaphor for life's journey and our relationship with the divine.

Learning about the 8 Dimensions of Wellness can help you choose how to make wellness a part of your everyday life. Wellness strategies are practical ways to start developing healthy habits that can have a positive impact on your physical and mental health. Here are the 8 Dimensions of Wellness:

1. Emotional – Coping effectively with life and creating satisfying relationships
2. Environmental – Good health by occupying pleasant, stimulating environments that support well-being
3. Financial – Satisfaction with current and future financial situations
4. Intellectual – Recognizing creative abilities and finding ways to expand knowledge and skills
5. Occupational – Personal satisfaction and enrichment from one’s work
6. Physical – Recognizing the need for physical activity, healthy foods, and sleep
7. Social – Developing a sense of connection, belonging, and a well-developed support system
8. Spiritual – Expanding a sense of purpose and meaning in life

 
Source: SAMHSA.gov