The Break Free Health Program Expands Across the MENAUM

When Tercio Marques arrived in the Middle East and North Africa Union Mission (MENAUM) in 2023 as the new Literature Ministries leader, he faced a challenging question: how to develop a strong and sustainable literature ministry in such a diverse field. Drawing from his experience in the publishing ministries of both the South and North American divisions, Marques began to see how health outreach could create new opportunities for ministry across the region.[i]

Nearly two decades earlier, while serving in the United States, Marques had collaborated with health professionals who requested materials to support their outreach programs. That collaboration led him to help develop systematized printed resources that connected health principles with personal lifestyle guidance. Later, in Brazil, he worked with a physician to produce such materials, combining literature, health education, and personal follow-up into a model that empowered medical workers and volunteers to build relationships while sharing health messages.

Recognizing that this approach could also be effective in MENAUM, Marques began adapting the concept to regional needs. The materials had to be written locally, reflecting the culture, foods, and natural remedies familiar to people in the region. Stories, illustrations, and recipes were developed to resonate with daily life in MENAUM communities.

In collaboration with Marcia McEdward and the Health Ministries team, the project grew into a larger initiative: to train individuals as lifestyle consultants who could accompany participants through a 10-week health and wellness program called Break Free. This training would not only provide printed resources but also equip participants to offer personal guidance and support, leaders behind the initiative said.

With the support of Luiz Fernando Sella and a dedicated team, the first Break Free training took place earlier in 2025 in one of MENAUM’s countries. The second session, held in Beirut in September, marked another major milestone. During 10 weeks 32 participants from across the region engaged in an intensive program that combined classroom instruction with practical experience—preparing natural meals, practicing home remedies, and walking through the 10-week course in a condensed format.

Presenters included the authors of the program materials Luiz Fernando Sella and Daniela Kanno, as well as Mario Martinelli, new General Conference Publishing Ministries director, and other regional leaders. Roberto Brandon Tygret, from the Amazing Facts ministry, also attended, exploring possibilities for collaboration, indicating that Break Free could extend its impact beyond MENAUM.

Participants left the training equipped and motivated to launch Break Free programs in three different countries. One attendee noted, “This is a wonderful way to meet people and follow up with them personally while caring for their health and well-being.”

Another couple shared plans to begin the program in their local church and then expand to their community, emphasizing its spiritual and practical benefits. Others highlighted how Break Free could strengthen both health awareness and provide channels for members to make a difference.

“As participants returned home, they carried with them practical tools, a tested model, and a shared purpose,” leaders behind the initiative said. “Now they want to use health ministry as a bridge for building relationships and serving communities across the MENAUM region.”

[i] Recently Marques has moved to serve at the Safeliz Publishing House in Spain.