For approximately 1,001 years, we have been asked by friends, families, and casual acquaintences, "What are you doing when you're done?" Our response: "We're moving to Africa to practice medicine." Of course, this is followed by the question, "Oh really! Where in Africa?" Umm, we don't quite know.
The interesting thing is that we have been asking lots of questions and even finding some answers regarding future plans, but the specific geographic location has remained undecided. Nevertheless (and we interact with other people in the same way), this is the question that people ask first, likely because of the natural desire to grasp something concrete about our aspirations. Well, the time has come.
We will be moving to Tenwek Hospital in southwest Kenya, for two years, sponsored by World Medical Mission, for a time of training, service, and vision building. Tenwek is just off the equator, but at an altitude of over 7000 feet, resulting in a very temperate climate. We are very excited about this, particularly because there are great opportunities for us in all of our particular medical specialties, as well as chances to work with the Kenyan surgical and family practice residency programs. Most of us just got back from the Global Missions Health Conference in Louisville, KY, and had a chance to meet face-to-face with some of the people we will be working alongside. This was tremendous, and just further added to our excitement.
After all these years, to watch our future plans gain clarity as they emerge out of the fog. This is wonderful, and we are thankful for the fruition.
7 comments:
This is for the whole team, right?
Wow, that is great news.
yes, this is for the whole team.
I'm so excited for you guys. It sounds like a lovely place to visit! Oh, and Jonathan and I are very sad to miss you (all 3!) this Thanksgiving...
Sami
Congratulations!The view of the land behind the hospital looks beautiful!
What incredibly exciting news, that you will be going to Kenya!
I visited Kenya about 20 years ago and was deeply impressed with both the people and the place. The people are warm and open and friendly for the most part and of all the places in Africa you could have gone, Kenya probably has the nicest climate. Even you will be near the equator, the 7000 ft. altitude makes for a beautiful climate. Make sure you bring sweaters and socks, etc. because from time to time you will feel downright chilly.
Since that time, I've been privileged to visit other parts of Africa, and believe me, other countries on that continent are in much worse shape (consider Zimbabwe!) than Kenya, economically, socially, politically, even spiritually. An old roommate of mine was once stationed in Adddis Ababa with the UN and she said that her coleagues used to spend their breaks in Kenya because living conditions, shopping, etc. were so much better there.
You are privileged indeed to be called to serve the Lord in Africa. African Christians are simple, whole-hearted, straighforward and love the Lord unabashedly. The whole church throughout Africa needs a deepening of understanding of Scripture, and I'm sure that you will have many opportunities to share with individuals and groups there.
May the Lord bless you richly.
So we finally know the destination. I know it has to be exciting for all of you. Much love, Mariah
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