FRANKLIN — The first session of the “545 Wellness Community” accomplished its mission: It included participation — and perspiration — from church leaders all across the state.
Now, it’s time for the second session of the ministry, which is hosted by the Tennessee Baptist Mission Board’s Strengthening Gospel Leaders team. The second session begins July 6 and runs through Nov. 16.
“We were really excited about the number of participants and about the positive results that many of them reported,” said Joe Sorah, Strengthening Gospel Leaders team leader for the TBMB. “Now, as we move into the second session, we’re looking forward to having some newcomers — along with some returnees — as we look to continue to grow the ministry.”
Nearly 200 pastors and church staff members signed up for the first session, and roughly 70 percent of those who were initially involved completed at least part of the program.
The Strengthening Gospel Leaders team launched the 545 Wellness Community in January with the purpose of establishing an online community for those who desired accountability for exercise.
Participants were encouraged to exercise five times a week for at least 30 minutes each period for five months. An optional goal was to lose five pounds a month for five months.
“One of the primary aims of 545 was helping gospel leaders serve well,” said Sorah. “Part of serving well is taking care of ourselves physically. It is not selfish on the part of ministers to give some time each day to care for their physical health. We should encourage our ministers to do so and our churches will benefit from it.”
Individuals who signed up were asked to report each week through the five-month period. A weekly email was sent to each participant that included encouragement, testimonies, and instruction with a link to report personal progress.
The first session, which lasted from January through May, had an average of 70 pastors who reported weekly.
Several of them reported losing weight and achieving fitness goals, Sorah said. Some were able to come off medications, thanks in large part to feeling empowered through the process of reporting and accountability, Sorah added.
One participant gave the following report:
“I have not kept up with the turning in of the weekly reports within this group. However, I did want to share that through conviction over my own sin of gluttony I have lost 37 pounds since January. I have gone down six inches in suit coat, from 64-58. (I’ve also gone) from 46 pants to 42, and from 5x to 3x in shirt size. All glory goes to Jesus!”
One of the participants lost 48 pounds in the first session, which represented the highest amount among those who reported their progress. (Some participants elected not to track weight loss, which was an optional part of the program).
Sorah said the break between the conclusion of the first session and start of the second will provide an “exit point” for those who do not want to continue in the program.
It will also be an excellent entry point for those who may not have participated in the first session but wish to do so in the second session, he said.
The 545 Wellness Community is open to all ministerial staff members and their families. Sign-up forms can be accessed at tnbaptist.org/545-wellness-community/.
A celebration of accomplishments will be held during the Summit 2026, with T-shirts given to those who report throughout the first or second session. Those who complete both sessions will be recognized.
Sorah said the results of a TBC ministers’ survey in 2025 fueled the need for the 545 program. The survey showed that 61% of the church leaders exercise one to two times a week or less and that 30% exercise two times or less each month.
It is widely recommended that individuals exercise at least five times a week for 30 minutes at a time, including brisk-walking or other activities. Doing so, in many cases, can reduce stress, improve mental outlook and lead to better sleep. B&R — For more information on the 545 Wellness Community, visit tnbaptist.org/545-wellness-community/.