In a region marked by conflict and deep trauma, a new Health Ministries initiative offers practical tools to help people walk the difficult path of forgiveness and open hearts to the gospel.
Thirty-two participants from across MENAU met May 9-10, 2025, for a “training of trainers” event focused on Forgive to Live, a program that will enable them to lead forgiveness initiatives in their local communities.
Participants responded positively to the program, appreciating its relevance to the ministry they are conducting in their local contexts.
“This material is critical to the work of helping so many people who have suffered terribly and don’t know how to find freedom from that burden,” remarked one participant. Another attendee shared how the program had helped her to recognize her own need to forgive. “You are taken step by step in a progression that helps you want to let go–and then gives you the tools to begin the journey.”
The Forgive to Live program is based on the book of the same name by Dr. Dick Tibbits, a licensed mental health counselor and ordained Seventh-day Adventist minister who graciously allowed his material to be contextualized for MENAU. The project was developed and led by Ruth Boyd, a nurse educator passionate about seeing people relieved from spiritual struggles that impact health outcomes.
“It has been such a privilege to work with Dr. Tibbits’ material,” she said. “Not only has the material transformed my own life, but I believe this will have an eternal impact on MENA. Undoubtedly, there will be many in the kingdom because of the freedom they will receive from our workers sharing this.”
The training sessions included interactive exercises, group discussions, and physical activities that helped participants engage with the material in meaningful, real-life ways. These elements not only made the experience practical and effective but also helped break the ice and open the door to deeper, more vulnerable conversations.
“One of the characteristics of all of our health training programs is intentionally including movement and interaction,” emphasizes Marsha McEdwards, MENA Health Ministries Director, crediting the General Conference Youth Alive program for ideas and examples; “People engage and retain the material more effectively when they’re actively involved.”
Organizers are now incorporating feedback from the event to finalize the materials. Each participant will soon begin leading Forgive to Live programs in their own context, offering practical support for people carrying emotional wounds and bitterness.
They return with training–and a message of healing. In communities where forgiveness often feels out of reach, Forgive to Live provides a clear, compassionate path forward 79 principal and creates new opportunities to share the gospel.