Medical Mission Outreach In Costa Abajo
[Above: Founders of the (FCMS)Fundacion Cristiana Medico Social, Odontologist Dr. Cleveland Cooper and wife Matilde Cooper]
Volunteers and members of the FCMS – Fundacion Cristiana Medico Social [Christian Medical and Social Foundation] of the Panama Baptist Convention, partnered with the First Isthmian Baptist Church to offer Medical services to the Costa Abajo Baptist missions and the wider community on Saturday February 2, 2008.
And by now you must expect that there has to be an interesting twist to what would otherwise be a normal day. I won’t disappoint you. After a 1-hour search to find my house from 6:30 am, the bus finally arrived to pick me up.
Needless to say we arrived late and found the people waiting anxiously to get attended to. Thankfully, registration went pretty smoothly and quickly.
Soon they were off to their first stop to see one of the 4 nurses for screening.
From this point they were directed to see either one of the 2 general medical doctors or the dentists.
The brave little fellow says "ahhh". Come to think of it I don’t recall hearing many screams coming from the dental area at all and I did not see a single ‘lollipop’ in sight.
An efficient assistant kept the implements sterilized……
Just over 100 persons received medical attention. The Good News which was being proclaimed through the medical ministry, was also shared through one-to-one witnessing with community persons who were not Christians. From this effort 7 persons made a profession of faith.
And of course, there was food for the belly. This little lady and I kept circling the pots wondering how much longer.
This is the best white rice ever. Yes I know brown rice is best…but come on. We are hungry….
And of course, there was good Panama Sancocho (sang-ko-cho). This is the traditional soup of Panama. However, when a Jamaican descendant like Sylvia throw in a few things I cannot pronounce, It certainly taste like real ‘yard soup’. This is typically served with white rice that you spoon into the soup.[Ah ah..don't even think It. I eat mine separately]
And after lunch, a break was a wise option…."Man, I’m gonna be so mad if somebody wakes me before sunset"
FCMS members also take a break….
The environment might be very rustic but the level of professionalism and well coordinated team work was a refreshing change. It reflected years of experience, utmost regard for those they served and a passion for this ministry that God has called them to.
It was truly a blessing to share the experience with them.
Are you inspired just a little bit to find opportunities for service? Find out what mission opportunities are available in your local church. However, If you wish to partner with us in a mission outreach opportunity then be sure to get in touch with me.
Email me at marvia(at)marviaspanamajournal(dot)com
Blessings and Peace,
Marvia
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February 5th, 2008 at 12:18 pm
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March 31st, 2008 at 6:25 pm
I think it is great what you are doing!!! I wish i could help… sadly i’m only 13.
April 3rd, 2008 at 12:58 pm
Hello Brandon,
Welcome!!
13 is a great age to start out in mission and you can make a difference in the life of other children. I’m going to share a little story in a post just for you. Look out for it.
Until,
Marvia