Santa Rita by the Sea: Clinic Day and Gospel Follow-Up
Today we headed out early to run a medical outreach in a village in Santa Rita, right next to the ocean. The drive took about an hour and a half, and once we arrived, we got everything set up and started seeing patients.
A Busy Clinic with Serious Needs
We saw a steady flow of patients throughout the day, and many in this village had severe medical problems that had gone untreated for years, including infections, chronic high blood pressure, and diabetes-related complications. We were able to help many people with evaluations, basic treatment, and practical next steps.
Dr. Chen also performed two procedures under local anesthesia during the outreach. For many of these patients, something as simple as access to a doctor and medication is normally out of reach, so this clinic made a real difference.
Free Medication and the Gospel
By the end of the day, we saw around 150 patients. The majority received needed medication at no cost, and most importantly, they received a clear gospel presentation. We had several professions of faith during the outreach.
One thing I appreciated was hearing that the church in Santa Rita is planning to begin a Bible study to follow up with the people who attended the clinic. That kind of follow-up matters. A one-day event is helpful, but ongoing discipleship is what strengthens a work long-term.
Wrapping Up Back in Tacloban
We finished the medical mission around 4:00 PM and drove back to the hotel.
Our hotel is in the same parking lot as the biggest mall in Tacloban, so that evening we ate at a restaurant in the mall called Mang Inasal. It is basically barbecue chicken and rice, and it was very good.
After dinner, Dr. Chen and I picked up a few things in the mall, then we headed back to the hotel and got some rest, ready for whatever tomorrow brings.
What a blessing to help so many people that needed help and the gospel.
Thanks for keeping us updated!