A LOOK AT OUR EXERCISE MINISTRY Becoming Good Stewards of Our Bodies

Though we live in an increasingly health-conscious society, it’s not likely that we’re accustomed to associating exercise with stewardship. Yet, at its heart, stewardship is about caring for, cultivating and using our Godgiven gifts, which includes our bodies.

“Part of living out stewardship is simply caring for God’s creation,” parishioner Jill Tracy says. “This means also caring for the health and wellbeing of our bodies.”

Having always had a passion for working out and staying fit, Jill felt called to form St. Peter’s Exercise Ministry last October as a way of helping parishioners care for their bodies in fun and engaging ways.

“Our purpose is to provide a fun, interactive atmosphere to encourage and support one other through group exercise classes,” Jill says. “It’s a place where everyone is welcome, no matter their skill level. Modifications are provided for all fitness levels and all ages are welcome.”

Classes are typically scheduled twice a week and are completely free. They consist of a 45-minute, total body workout that utilizes resistance tubes/bands, light free weights, and your own body weight, to provide core, cardio and strength training.

Jill says that, over the past year, she has personally gained a tremendous amount of joy and satisfaction from the ministry. It’s been uplifting to be able to help others achieve their fitness goals as well as a great way to meet new members of the parish community. And though a true workout, there is also plenty of fun and opportunity for camaraderie in the classes.

“I receive great joy out of the friendships I have made and knowing that I am helping people feel motivated to work out,” Jill says. “The appreciation and gratitude shown after each class is so uplifting. I truly look forward to teaching these workouts and I personally feel like I am fulfilling God’s purpose for me by helping others feel strong and healthy.”

Parishioners interested in joining or learning more about the Exercise Ministry can visit the group’s Facebook page — St. Peter’s Workout Group — or contact Jill Tracy directly by cell at 217-257-2460 or email at jilltracy@adams.net. “The class is super fun and exciting with upbeat music and a very good calorie burn,” Jill says. “Come prepared to sweat!”