- Details
- Written by Kimberly Pepmiller Kimberly Pepmiller
- Created: June 21 2019 June 21 2019
The morning of our final clinic day in Kahe began in a wonderful way: with a baptism. One of the patients we cared for this week is a severely malnourished child that we have connected to the local resources in the hope that the healthcare system will come through to support the child and his mother. Due to the severity of the child's condition, we connected the mother with the local Lutheran pastors in Kahe. Baptism was discussed, and the mother agreed. Therefore, this morning, there was a joyful baptism at the clinic. Many from the waiting crowd attended and provided beautiful harmonies for the acappella hymns. One of our team members was chosen as the godmother/sponsor. The child received the baptismal name of Marco, which is a strong biblical name, and he is also named after one of our team members. It was an emotional and an impactful way to begin the final day.
The clinic day went quickly as there were many patients waiting to be seen and limited time to see them all. At the end of the day, we were unable to see all of the patients, which is always a challenging situation. We hope and pray that those in greatest need of both spiritual and physical care were able to make it through the line to be seen.
Partnering with the local Tanzanian healthcare workers this week has been wonderful. Each one desires to do what is right to support their communities. This was seen through many tender moments where they went out of their way to do what is good and right. Challenges may exist in healthcare access, availability, and resources. However, there are admirable people here doing the work.
This evening Pastor Charles led the team and local missionaries in a communion service to close out the week. The evening concluded with a final debrief. Team members are looking forward to several days of enjoyment exploring Africa in new ways before traveling back home. The week has been a success and our hearts are full.
“Hesed” is a Hebrew word that means “kindness,” “mercy,” “loyalty,” “loving-kindness” or “steadfastness.” It’s the way God intends us to live together—a “love your neighbor as yourself,” active, selfless, sacrificial, caring-for-one-another brand of living contradictory to our fallen natures. The “Heseders” are continually looking to work together to share some small measure of God’s extraordinary love. Won’t you join us?