During the “Church and Health Conferences” of the early 1980s keynote speakers addressed issues of wellness, health and wholistic health. These concepts gave form and direction to the ministry of the Brethren Health and Welfare Association which was led by Jay Gibble (retired executive director of ABC).

At the same time, David Hilton, a doctor volunteering with the Rural Health Project in Nigeria, began introducing the concept of Lafiya as it was practiced in Nigeria to Brethren Health and Welfare Association workers. After much research and consultation, Lafiya was introduced to the denomination at the 1990 Annual Conference. In 2005, the ministry was renamed the Wellness Ministry.