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In addition to the medical care delivered to patients
via the clinic at International Evangelical Church (IEC), we had facets
in pharmacy, evangelism and children's ministry.
PHARMACY
Life
in the pharmacy is like the kitchen in your home. It's the hub of our
medical operations with people coming and going all day long. Much like
a kitchen is filled with love, our pharmacy is filled with the joy of
serving. It's a focal place for dispensing much needed medications for
people who are very sick. Our patients are grateful for the loving service
and appreciate that there is no charge for the medical treatment or medications.
Altogether,
we have seen close to 300 patients and dispensed over 450 prescriptions.
Because HIV/AIDS is so prevalent, nearly every patient was given medication
for infections as well as for other ailments.
There is a very large need here for antibiotics, vitamins, respiratory
medications and anti-fungal's.
It was wonderful knowing that the health of many of the
patients has improved since starting the anti-retro viral medications
given to them by the HIV/AIDS project.
EVANGELISM
Some
of us had the wonderful experience of pastoring to and praying with the
patients after they had medical treatment. Some were Orthodox Christians
who placed a special emphasis on Mary, the mother of Jesus. Others had
a Protestant background. A few had gone to both Orthodox and Protestant
churches and were unclear what they believed.
Through the work of excellent interpreters and the guidance of an "Evange
Cube," a number of these beneficiaries accepted Jesus Christ as their
personal Savior.
While the medical treatment was important, their decision
to accept Jesus Christ as their personal Savior had eternal implications.
Each member of the team involved in these conversions appreciated the
opportunity to serve his fellow man. One married couple, both HIV/AIDS
positive, accepted Jesus in this fashion.
CHILDREN'S MINISTRY
Another part of this experience has been about spending
time and "loving on" the kids of HIV-AIDS beneficiaries, some
of whom have the disease themselves. We've enjoyed blowing bubbles, reading
stories, playing soccer, and drawing with the kids. What fun it has been
to experience their vibrant personalities and to have been a part of their
life these couple of days!
 
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