Adventists cycle for health and hope through the streets of Mexico City

Seventh-day Adventists ride their bicycles on the main streets in Mexico City as part of youth event to promote health and hope. Thousands of books and magazines were distributed during the activity on Jan. 31, 2016. Images courtesy of Asociación Metropolitana de Mexico

February 18, 2016 | Mexico City, Mexico | Libna Stevens/IAD

A master guide hands over a magazine designed printed by the Adventist Church in Mexico to a woman, during the outreach event.

Hundreds of Seventh-day Adventists rode their bicycles on the main streets of Mexico City last month as part of a youth event to promote health and hope. The more than 500 young and old pedaled through some 34 kilometers of the city while hundreds walked and passed out thousands of books, magazines and free online gift cards.

“We wanted to mobilize our young people, their friends and our young-at-heart members to be active and take part in new and attractive ways to witness in this great city,” said Enoc Ramirez, youth ministries director of the metropolitan conference and organizer of the event.

Ramirez said the event took place on Jan. 31, 2016, just as the city closes its main avenues every last Sunday of the month for people to ride their bicycles, run or walk throughout the day.

An avid runner himself, Ramirez said it was wonderful to see young kids from adventurer and pathfinder clubs on their bikes as well as our adult members from 90 Adventist churches across the city taking the time to testify about living healthy while spreading some joy.

Pathfinders from across 90 churches in the metropolis ride during the cyclothon.

The event was not just about highlighting the importance of a healthy lifestyle, said Ramirez, but “our members shared hope to everyone in the city by distributing more than 2,000 Steps to Christ books, praying with those who needed prayer and sharing hugs,” said Ramirez. In addition, church members passed out 6,000 cards for people to claim online Bible studies, a virtual book, and tips on how to live a healthy lifestyle.

Sara Lopez was part of a group that walked through the main avenues in the city passing out books. “I enjoyed being part of this witnessing activity, meeting people and handing them the cards for free resources online. I feel so blessed,” said Lopez.

The activity brought so much interest among Adventist young people in Mexico City that leaders are planning several more cyclothon events throughout the year.

Dania Aragon contributed to this report.