Medical Ministry Prayer Request

There is so much potential in our medical ministry down here - so many families torn up by tragic illnesses, such as disability that prohibits the husband from working or a sick child whose medical bills are more than the family income. Physical and spiritual needs are so intertwined in our lives that our pastoral approach to medical care provides unlimited opportunities to present our Healing Savior to the sick and hurting.

Our Wichanzao clinic is undergoing much change and activity this year - some of which we have pursued to improve care, some of which has been forced upon us because of unforeseen circumstances. For example: We are implementing a new administrative system. The pastor, Guillermo, recently moved to a church in Moyobamba, leaving the church in search of a pastor. Rocio, the Obstetrics Nurse who has run the clinic for the past 3 years tendered her resignation. We are almost finished with the construction of the new medical facility next to the church. Two days a week we have Peruvian doctors who attend in the clinic; one day a week, a dentist attends there. We have had several USA doctors visit already this year, with several more on the calendar. Peru Mission interns and Peruvian medical students from our churches are conducting extensive research in our neighborhoods so that we may provide the help most needed.

Our Arevalo clinic is going up quickly now, and will provide numerous opportunities to minister to the people in that neighborhood. The church itself seems to be going through a time of trial and resistance, though the recent relocation of the pastor, Eduardo, and his family is providing for a long-needed presence of Christ there.

Please pray for our medical ministry down here. Over the last 2 days Bill has been counseling with two men in the Wichanzao parish, who were relatively steady workers in their fields, but over the last year have either suffered an accident or an illness that has barred them from providing for their families. He hopes to be able to visit these people on a more regular basis. Following up on these patients is a crucial aspect in ministering to the whole person and family - opening up channels for the love of Christ to flow into their hearts and change their lives.