INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN MEDICAL AND DENTAL ASSOCIATION
XIV WORLD CONGRESS
PUNTA-DEL-ESTE - URUGUAY
Note: Date Change to 1-8 JULY 2010
GRADUATES NEWS, VIEWS, PRAISE AND PRAYER
STUDENTS AND JUNIORS GRADUATES NEWS
CONFERENCES CALENDAR
ISSUE 3
PG 3
PG 14
PG 20
OCTOBER 2009 TO JANUARY 2010
EDITORIAL
GENERAL SECRETARY – DR DARYL HACKLAND
This third issue of News Praise and Prayer for 2009
focusses largely on the annual reports received
from the member organisations of the ICMDA.
These reports are presented to the ICMDA Executive
Committee each year as a reflection of all the
activities undertaken by them in facilitating and
promoting fellowship, study of the Scriptures, prayer
and outreach into mission etc.
to Christ in so many ways. Do pray for them.
Consider especially those living in countries where
it is very difficult to “live for Christ.” Many of our
fellow believers are restricted in being able to enjoy
religious freedom. Those of us living in countries
where we are not limited by such restrictions, often
take this freedom so much for granted. Let us
‘bear each others burdens” meaningfully.
As with these reports, news of exciting and
encouraging events come to us each day. This is
all such a reminder that God in Christ goes before
us, leading us into those places where He purposes
to bless, to encourage, to guide and to build His
Kingdom. What a privilege, honour as well as
responsibility we have to be His representatives
wherever we are. Paul reminds us in Col 3:17
“Everything you do or say, then, should be done
in the name of the Lord Jesus, as you give thanks
through Him to God the Father.” (GNB)
As this year now quickly draws to an end, please
do uphold the 2010 World Congress before the
Lord. Expectations are high for a Congress that
will bring much development of Kingdom work in
Latin America. Please continue to pray for the
Organising Committee that they will be aware of
the presence of our Lord in all they do.
As you read through this issue, I invite you to pause
every now and then and give thought to fellow
colleagues in health professions around the world
who are busy expressing their witness and service
We are always looking for news and items for praise.
Please do keep in contact with us and give to us
any comments or suggestions that you feel will
make us more effective in our work for the Lord.
Do enjoy this issue. God be with you always.
Daryl
ATTENTION - DATE CHANGE
ICMDA XIVth World Congress,
Punta del Este, Uruguay
The conference now begins on Thursday 1 July
with the Student and Junior Graduates
conference from 1-4 July 2010, followed by the
main Congress from 4-8 July.
The conference theme ‘Priorities in professional
practice: for whom are you working?’ will be
explored in Bible readings, plenary sessions and
seminars. Congress speakers include Dr. Pablo
Martinez (Spain) as Bible Reader, Dr. David
Stevens (USA) and author Philip Yancey. Why
not attend and join Christian medics and dentists,
students and graduates from around the globe?
Registration and further information can be found
on the Congress website www.icmda2010.org.
Please note that
early registration
rates apply for bookings before 31 December.
See same web-site for details on pre-congress
seminars, including a meeting 2-3 July for
psychologists and psychiatrists – ‘The Place of
the Sacred in Psychotherapy.’
We are establishing a bursary fund to support
delegates who would not otherwise be able to
attend. Donations in the UK can be made
through the ICMDA UK Trust. For information
on how to give, contact the Trust’s new secretary,
Dr. Mark Pickering on uktrust@icmda-online.org.
Mark has taken over from Dr. Peter Pattisson.
2010 WORLD CONGRESS BURSARY FUND – REQUEST FOR SUPPORT
This fund provides an opportunity of a lifetime. We ask for your prayerful support in
making this opportunity a reality for Christian Health Professional graduates and
students living in economically poor countries. To contribute please visit www.icmda.net
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NEWS PRAISE & PRAYER FROM AROUND THE GLOBE
SOUTH ASIA - INDIA
Christian Medical Association of India (CMAI) April 2009
Excerpts from Life for All - From Dr. Vijay Aruldas
The past few months have seen
several significant activities at
CMAI. We have initiated a new
project to strengthen the National
Rural Health Mission in four states,
working in partnership with CINI
(for West Bengal), CHETNA (for
Gujarat) and RUHSA-CMC Vellore
(for Tamil Nadu). CMAI is the lead
agency and is implementing this
in Orissa.
We have also started work with
the Church in Meghalaya
(Presbyterian Church and Garo
Baptist Convention) to strengthen
the government’s programme to
stop tuberculosis.
The CMAI Chair at the Indira
Gandhi National Open University
(IGNOU) is moving ahead rapidly,
and we look forward to launching
the first set of courses this year.
Please pray for this work.
Regional Conferences in each of
the 13 regions are being
organised.
The regional
conferences are valuable
opportunities for fellowship and
sharing within the region to
discuss regional issues, plan for
the coming period and elect the
regional office bearers.
IN RESPONSE TO THE NEED
CMAI has completed a 1-year
project that strengthened
community programmes of
member institutions to address
disability issues in their
communities. The Doctors
Section will be taking up the follow
up. Dr. Helen Simon and Dr. Gift
Norman will visit the hospitals
and help initiate further action. Kandhamal victims. Utkal
Christian Council organised the
Palliative Care training is likely to trauma care and counselling
be offered as a 1 year Diploma
programme through the CMAI workshops for pastors who could
in turn go to Kandhamal and
Chair at IGNOU.
minister to victims there. Initially
CMAI’S ASSISTANCE TO there was some hesitancy but
FLOOD-AFFECTED AREAS IN people saw the skills the pastors
had attained, welcomed them
BIHAR
and took them to different sectors.
Due to heavy monsoon rains in There were 22 participants in
August 2008, river Kosi swelled Bihar and 32 in Orissa.
and changed its course causing
severe floods in many districts of A systematic method was followed
Bihar. CMAI is thankful to the many wherein the participants had to
institutions that offered support. return with verbatims which were
assessed by the resource faculty.
INITIATIVES IN TRAUMA CARE A lot of knowledge was imparted
AND COUNSELING , BIHAR
on counselling skills in order to
AND ORISSA
be effective.
CMAI has conducted Trauma
Care and Counseling training CMAI’ s intensive involvement was
workshops for pastors and lay in the first phase and it will continue
leaders of churches in Bihar and to mentor those who have been
trained. Volunteers will minister to
Orissa.
the affected in the second phase.
In Orissa, most of the participants In this way this very effective
were pastors who were also ministry is still going on.
“I would rather walk with God in the dark than go alone in the light.”
Mary Gardiner Brainard
SOUTH-EAST ASIA - INDONESIA
Christian Medical & Dental Fellowship Report For 2009
- Conferences : “The 16th National Medical Students Conference” with the theme
“Doctors Who Follow Christ” was held In August and was attended by 215 students.
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“The 7th National Medical Graduates Conference” with the
same theme was also held and was attended by 106
graduates.
- Holistic Mission : The medical Mission Courses were attended
by junior doctors. CMDFI joined with other Christian MGOs
like Yayasan Gerhati, Boomerang-Australia, Yayasan Imanuel
and The Christian Medical Fellowship Kakarta to carry out
Above: Hollistic Mission
Medical Services to the poor.
Left: The Samaritan
- Networking with other mission hospitals and Christian ministry
Below: CMDFI Board
organizations locally and overseas, in the medical mission
field, such as ICMDA, CMF-UK and Dental Service International
Korea has been very fruitful.
- Medical Graduates Gathering: The Alumni Gathering is the
best opportunity for fellowship and sharing on the development
of the CMDFI service. In 2008 we had two gatherings. First
for reaching out to junior doctors and the second for senior
doctors with the aim to raise funds for the National Medical
Conference.
The CMDFI has stimulating and encouraging methods of COMMUNICATION AND INFORMATION for
medical students, graduates and other Christian institutions through it’s magazine ”SAMARITAN” and
the internet, where the CMDFI members can be informed through:
Email : pmdn_perkantas@yahoo.com
Blog : http://www.PMdN.blogspot.com/
The CMDFI BOARD felt that it is important to implement programmes and encourage all staff and board
members in the spirit of service.
SINGAPORE - NEWS FROM REAL
August 2009 by Wei-Leong Goh
In life as a Christian medical and dental professional,
we gain insights and come to road maps in the light
of experiences, questions and convictions. The new
leadership team with young dentists and doctors
serving alongside seniors will certainly challenge
the prior view of our role in society, church and
family. Our chaplain Rev. Dr. Tan Soo Inn will
continue to encourage us and build spiritual
friendships as our "Honorary Chaplain.”
colleagues. Dr. Chris Gnanakan challenged us on
the "Six Paradigm Shifts in Medical
Missions".
Our brothers and sisters serving in the field helped
us explore new and different questions along our
medical journey at a very warm "family" gathering
which included students. Surprises and bonuses
from the Lord come in many forms as we ask fresh
questions of life in medicine; and our students are
Our doctors have started their first bi-monthly prayer asking for mentors too.
meeting having been inspired by their dental
CMDF RETREAT ANNUAL
FELLOWSHIP
MEETING
By Dr. Tan Kay Soon
As with most AGMs, CMDF’s had the usual reports and announcement of new leaders.
But the evening session held at Wesley Methodist Church on June 4 had something more
– an inspiring message by guest speaker, Dr. Chris Gnanakan and a short but heartfelt
sharing session by medical student Ms. Ann Toh.
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Ms. Ann Toh related her personal experience on her M4 elective posting to Yunnan, China and even had a
teenage guest from Yunnan who moved the audience with her testimony. She shared about how she had
acid thrown on her face when she was a young girl, but through the support of missionary doctors who did
her surgery for free and coming to know the Lord, she found the courage to face the world again.
Our Chaplain Rev. (Dr.) Tan Soo Inn then elucidated the concept behind our new Mission Statement: That
CMDF is an evangelical fellowship of dentists and doctors committed to mobilise, equip and guide the
dental and medical community to be servants of God’s Kingdom for the glory of God.
We also went home encouraged and spurred on by what Dr. Chris Gnanakan expounded, and that is
“what we become through what we do is more important than what we do”. To listen, believe, love, serve,
and hope – that, in essence, is the beautiful simplicity of what we are called to do.
Please rejoice with us in His work and ministry and pray that we respond to His will in areas needing
attention.
EAST ASIA - JAPAN
The Report of the Japan Christian Medical Association (JCMA)
JCMA, founded in 1949, has engaged in spreading
gospel as well as delivering education to medical
workers and students across the medical sector in
Japan through its bulletin “Medicine and Gospel”. It
has also served as a place for research and discussion
on issues lying between “medicine” and “gospel”, as
well as between “patients” and “medical workers”.
As of May 2009, our membership reached 606!
The 37th Asian Christian and Medical Workers
and Students Exchange Program is outstanding
and was held in August.
More than 100 people participated in this
programme, from Korea, Taiwan, Thailand as well
as from all over from Japan. The theme was
“Community Based Care for underprivileged people
by Christian medical workers and students.”
The 60th General Meeting of JCMA was held in August
22-24, 2008. The theme was “Spiritual Care.”
More than 100 members attended the Meeting.
A protest statement against the official visit to
Yasukuni Shrine by members of the Cabinet, as
well as a declaration to steadfastly maintain our
peace constitution was adopted at the Meeting.
The 83rd National Committee Meeting was held on
January 8, 2009 in Tokyo. Besides business matters,
our members had a lively discussion concerning
future of JCMA.
We give thanks to the greatness of our God who
has led us thus far in our commitment to Him.
M.E.T.N.A. - EGYPT
CHRISTIAN MEDICAL FELLOWSHIP OF EGYPT
Report May 2009
The Christian Medical fellowship of Egypt (CMF) is
now nearly 28 years old. By God’s grace and your
continuous prayer and practical support, CMF is
progressing in the number of active members,
mainly young graduates, and the quality of service.
The service fields are: the Mobile Clinic, the “Good
Samaritan” Geriatric Nursing Home, the Home
Health Care, the Regular Spiritual Meetings, the
Summer and Winter Conferences, the Annual
Christmas Celebration, the Evangelistic Praise
Festivals and the “Good Samaritan” medico-spiritual
magazine.
THE MOBILE CLINIC
The health outreach program of the CMF began
15 years ago with the aim to deliver medical and
spiritual care to needy people in rural areas where
they don’t have enough money to visit a doctor or
to buy medicines. Or, as in some areas of Egypt,
they may even have no doctors
near by in their village.
The mobile clinic usually does two
trips (sometimes one) every month.
The mobile medical team is
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composed of 4 – 6 doctors, one pharmacist and 1
– 2 nurses. They examine a large number of patients
and distribute free medicines. Patients needing
surgery are referred to nearby hospitals. Also, after
delivering medical care, they witness to our Saviour’s
love at the evening service of the rural church.
We need your prayers to form a second new mobile
medical team and thus double the outreach trips.
Also to better equip the mobile clinic with medical
instruments and up-to-date apparatus.
THE GOOD SAMARITAN GERIATRIC HOME
We are so grateful to our Lord who supported us
for 8 years since we began geriatric care at the
Good Samaritan Home. Our aim is to serve the
elderly and be a shelter for those in need. All 24
beds are fully occupied. It is indeed a place of
empathetic and compassionate care.
THE HOME HEALTH CARE
Our aim is to present physical and spiritual home
care to non-hospitalized old or sick persons. We
have a team of 10 trained care providers. We need
more care givers. So, please pray that our Lord
would send new good Christians willing to be trained
to serve as care givers.
spiritual aspect of the profession, followed by a
medical presentation and then fellowship. Every
Tuesday we continue to meet for prayer and
planning at the Evangelical Fellowships’ home, at
Faggala, Cairo.
THE CONFERENCES
God poured out His blessings on the last winter
conference which was on February 19 – 22, 2009
at the Brethren conference centre of Suez. 105
medicals attended this conference most of them
were young medicals. The conference program
was broadcasted, live, on Pal talk. A good number
of our members present in the Gulf area and in
other remote countries could follow, live, this special
occasion.
The Students and young medicals’ Conference was
attended by155 students and young graduates, a
number of whom accepted Christ as their personal
saviour during the conference. It took place at BeitEl-Wadi, Wadi-El-Natroun September 15 - 18, 2008.
A special, youth directed, program had been
prepared by a special committee for this occasion.
The Spiritual Meetings - Monthly and Weekly Prayer
Meetings. Focusing on the spiritual aspect of the
profession, medical discussion and fellowship.
Annual Christian celebrations are a highlight of our
calendar and attracts members who are not from
the centre. Evangelistic Praise Festivals are
organised to expose the students and other medical
professionals to the living message of Christ and
transmit the CMF vision to them. We praise God
for His faithfulness.
On the last Friday of every month Doctors,
Pharmacists, Staff Nurses, Physiotherapists and
Paramedical University graduates continue to meet
at Ezbekia Evangelical church. The focus is on the
The CMF-Egypt Medico-Spiritual magazine "The
Good Samaritan" is widely distributed to the medical
profession in Egypt. Some even reach the Arabic
reading medicals in USA, Canada and Australia.
AFRICA - SOUTHERN AFRICA
SOUTH AFRICA
Report from CMF Administrative Secretary Lucy Hollands
Greetings from the CMF South Africa. We thank God for the work He has done in 2008 through CMF. Some
of the highlights were:- Speakers on various topics discussing practical issues & medical ethics in the West. Rev. Dr. Aldo Fontao
of Argentina spoke on Being a Christian Health Professional in Today’s World.
- The Combined Networking Conference: Organised by 5 difference healthcare organisations held in
Drakensville, with the theme “Christ our Hope in Health Care”
- Healthcare Sunday: celebrated in October under the banner “Called to Serve”
- In response to the crises in Zimbabwe, CMF launched an appeal for funds to purchase food
for the Christian medical students and doctors in the region. Money was also collected through
CMF channels to assist with the cholera epidemic. Both of these channels are still going and
collection is ongoing.
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Please take time to thank God for all the things he helped us achieve.
In June the CMF conference was held in George. A number of members, junior graduates and students
attended. It was blessed to have local pastors, CMF members and members of the ICMDA Executive
Committee share the word of God on the theme “Whose World is it anyway?” They shared personal experiences
in ministry in their professional work and on challenges that face our communities at this present time.
Professor Peter Ravenscroft – ICMDA Chairman, spoke on the importance of Palliative Care and had the
opportunity to share his experience with the local hospice board in George.
EAST AFRICA - RWANDA
Report from Paul Anderson – Representing Specialists Without Borders
RWANDA CMDF LAUNCHED - PRAISE AND THANKS TO
GOD FOR ALL THE PRAYERS AND SUPPORT
Having just returned from Rwanda and a very successful
medical and surgical emergencies meeting, I’m sure everyone
would be delighted to know, that CMDF Rwanda was officially
launched after about 18 months of planning/praying and
encouragement.
Specialists without Borders, was delighted to sponsor the meeting
and then to be asked to pray for the executive. SWB also initiated
the financial viability of the new organization with a small gift,
and then had the pleasure of listening to a series of inspiring
talks both from African doctors and our visiting Christian
specialists. It was good to have as our guest professor James
Smith (ENT surgeon) who spoke on medical ethics, professor
Inis Bardella( physician) who spoke on faith and medicine as
well as American Bill Bevins a missionary doctor from Kenya.
ABOVE : CMDFR Launched
BELOW : Praying for the Executive
Dr. Steve Rulisa is the first chairman. I believe that they will
now seek to link with ICMDA and are being guided particularly
by the Kenyan CMDF. I have included a few photographs
which were taken from that first night. The president of the
Christian students was present. They continue to appreciate
the help that emanates from Adelaide in particular the Flinders
University medical students and the prayer that covers them.
OCEANIA - AUSTRALIA
Excerpts of News from CMDF Students Newsletter No2/09
On the first weekend in July, close to 300 people from around Australia celebrated with thankfulness
to God, the milestone of 60 years of the CMDFA. It was held in the dining hall of the Geelong Grammar
School. The Anniversary dinner was an integral part of the 2009 National Conference combined with
the 10th IMPACT Students and Recent Grads Conference.
Cliff Smith, the retiring Executive Officer, had prepared a fascinating talk and pictorial show of the
CMDFA story 1949 to 2009, bringing to mind the men and women of faith, vision and
energy who had founded the CMDFA in all states of Australia.
In every organization there are seasons of change. The writer of Ecclesiastes says in
chapter 3 “There is a time to tear down, and a time to build”. CMDFA, after 60 years,
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is in the middle of another transition. We honoured and said farewell to Cliff Smith as he retires from
being Executive Officer, and look to Michael Burke as the new EO to carry the baton forward.
A new Chair, Dr Judy Fitzmaurice, new REGD worker Jeremy Beckett and new student leaders across
the country add to the mix. Some states are looking to a new generation to take up the baton of leadership
and are in the process of change. As well as this, the National governing body has set up a Constitution
Review Task Force who are reviewing our current Constitution with a view to proposing changes in our
structure.
The National body welcomes your input and invites your prayerful
support. Please feel free to contact us or others in the Task Force.
Please Pray
- That as we undergo this review, we may be led by God
- That the results of this review will be for His glory and the extension
of His Kingdom.
Let’s Thank God
- That the winds of change are also ushering in a new generation
of doctors and dentists who are standing up for faith in Christ and
love in action!
Left: Dr Cliff Smith & Dr Owen Lewis
Right: Dr Judy Fitzmaurice
Philippians 1:3-5
“I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you. I always pray with
joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this,
that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
EURASIA NEWS
From James Tomlinson
The Eurasia Committee and Area
Student Representatives (ASRs)
met in March from across Europe
and Eurasia in Lithuania, for a time
of team development and for the
Eurasia Committee meetings.
Throughout our times of worship
and devotion, training, strategic
planning, and fun there was a
deep sense of ‘team’ as we
enjoyed fellowship together. We
were also aware of God’s
guidance during our discussions.
Times such as this are vital for
strengthening the Eurasia team
and refining our vision as we
support the work of the national
movements and contact groups
across our region.
While we were
together, two new
ASRs
were
interviewed and
appointed for
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Eastern Europe and for the
Caucasus. We also welcomed
new members to the Eurasia
committee from Portugal and
Egypt. Kevin Vaughan continues
in his role as chairman of the
committee and Kristian Kristensen
(Denmark) took over as treasurer.
A highlight of our time in Lithuania
was an evening with members of
the Lithuanian CMF who shared
how, as they had prayed regularly
with others from the CMF in their
hospitals and institutions, they
found themselves being given
positions as heads of their
departments and institutions. I
was challenged by their
dedication to pray in, and for,
their places of work and sensed
that because of their commitment
to seek God’s will and way in their
workplaces, they have given these
positions of influence despite their
relatively small numbers.
Priorities are to invest time into
building a strong foundation on
which further growth can occur.
This applies both to the people
who volunteer and work with
ICMDA in Eurasia, and also in our
systems and structures. The latter
aspect includes work on a
database, and our communication and work towards
www.icmda.net. resources which
hosts recordings from the EuropeEurasia conference among other
resources, and has just gone
online with some initial resources.
In May, ARCHAE(the Austrian
CMF) ran their first conference
for students and juniors with 60
attending.
This was an
encouraging time for those
present, including our ASR for
Central Europe – Chris. Also in
May, I had the privilege of joining
the Romanian CMA at their
annual conference which
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explored the theme of ‘the Psyche Balkans, in Serbia and Bulgaria. Solution at their national conference,
and Soul’. The same weekend saw Later the same month the Spanish with the assistance of HCFI and
two other conferences in the CMF ran an International Saline International Health Services.
We are still seeking applications for the role of ASR for
Western Europe. If you would be interested, or know
someone who may be appropriate, please contact
me on eurasia@icmda-online.org
SCANDINAVIA AND THE BALTICS
ESTONIA - Report from Mirjam Türkson
The Estonian Christian Physicians Society has meeting we have spiritual lecture and at least
about 30-40 active members (4-5 students). one medical theme and discussion.
Students have their own sub-organisation and
they have homepage as well: http://ekag.planet.ee Some themes have been:- “Christian testimony in postmodern community”
We have 2 meetings per year and 1 extra
led by Theologian Ingmar Kurg
meeting at Christmas time usually. We meet - “Prayer” led by Katrin Luhamets and Mirjam
usually in different towns in Estonia and in every
Türkson - our members
DENMARK - CMF Denmark Report by Hans Holmsgaard
In 2008 we continued our efforts to modernize our
association. In 2007 we renewed our Logo, in 2008
our new homepage was established, and in the
beginning of 2009 the modernising process was
completed by the renewing of our newsletter. Due
to the help from a professional advertising agency
these new materials now appear very inviting,
beautiful and still informative. We have also had
some sweatshirts and T-shirts made, carrying our
logo and name. They have already been worn at
two congresses for medical staff. In this way we try
to become more visible in the society as well as
among our colleagues - still remembering our
purpose to:
1. Strengthen the faith in Jesus Christ in our
members.
2. Promote the influence of Christianity in the daily
work as doctors.
3. Promote doctors as missionaries.
In our two regional meetings the topic was “Close
to death – care, hope and consolation”. We listened
to personal testimonies and also inspired on others
in these difficult situations.
At our annual meeting in September the headline
was “Peace and Reconciliation”. Here we had the
pleasure of listening to Daryl Hackland giving three
sessions on: “Reconciled IN God – HIS
FORGIVENESS”, “Reconciled TO Ourselves – OUR
HEALING” and “Reconciled WITH Others – Their
HOPE”. Daryl Hackland also shared with us the
exciting process of reconciliation in South Africa
after apartheid.
We also had the opportunity to listen to another
wise person Rev. Preben Kok underlining the
distinction between the matters where you have the
power, the responsibility and the possibility of being
guilty and the matters where you do not have the
power, therefore no responsibility and then no
possibility of guilt. To avoid stress and burnout we
have to be aware of this distinction. This is important
both in our relationship to God and in our relationship
to other human beings.
Saturday night we had a gospel-workshop which
the many students and most
of the doctors enjoyed.
Although the Danish CMF this
year turns 112 years, it is still
going strong!
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CENTRAL EUROPE - POLAND
WESTERN EUROPE - PORTUGAL
CMF POLAND REPORT 2009
by Jan Grzeszkowiak – Vice President
ANNUAL REPORT OF ACEP PORTUGAL
From Dr. Jorge Cruz
Events and activities in 2008 included:- Local CMF groups – several local groups meet
for prayer, Bible studies and discussions. They
also support local churches, hold seminars and
educate church members on the Christian
perspective in medicine and on how to approach
several medical and psychological problems
which occur in the Body of Christ.
- “The Whole Patient Care” – the CMF
Poland/PRIME U.K. meeting in Lodz with
Drs John Geater and Luise Younie as the
guest speakers.
- April 2008 “Doubts about Darwin. Evolution:
fact Or a myth” - CMF Poland/Polish Bible
Creationism Society meeting in Poznan.
The main speaker: Dr G. Barnard (U.K.).
- May 2008 CMF Poland National Annual
Conference “Improving Our Practice” –
Zakosciele. About 40 attended lectures,
workshops and seminars led by medical
doctors, psychologists, pastors and lawyers.
This has been an exciting and challenging time
for ACEPS-Portugal as we have been taking
initiatives and using every opportunity to present
the kingdom values and the Christian message
to Medical Schools and Hospitals in our country.
Communication included:- CMF Poland Bulletin – 2 issues (Spring and
Winter 2008)
- CMF Poland website – renewed:
www.chsm.org.pl Polish edition of the “Cure
for Life” book by Dr Bernard Palmer
CMF/Student Project
In order to reach 1st year students, a special leaflet
has been inserted into the official magazine for
medical students in three polish medical universities.
We pray this will introduce them to the possibilities
of fellowship and be fruitful in changing the lives of
those who attend and into the life of medical schools.
The highlights of 2008 include:
A very successful first-ever PRIME Conference in
Portugal last October in one of the main private
Hospitals in Lisbon.
The Annual Meeting of ACEPS-Portugal was held
after this conference, in partnership with PRIME,
under the main theme “Holistic Health: Body,
mind and spirit”. It was attended on the first
evening by the governor of the province of Sofala,
Mozambique and he has invited Prime to present
a workshop in Mozambique.
Lectures on Bioethics and Medical Ethics from a
Christian perspective at secular and Christian
meetings by Jorge Cruz and other members of
the National Committee were undertaken.
We are developing closer relationships with
Portuguese-speaking African countries, particularly
Mozambique and Angola.
Please pray
- For God’s direction as we seek to develop
activities which will meet the needs of the health
professionals in Portugal and bring honour to
Him. One of our aims for the future is to edit
the Luke’s gospel, in partnership with the
Portuguese Bible Society, to deliver to all doctors
working in our country (around 30 000).
ARE YOU GOING TO BE THERE?
DON’T FORGET THERE IS ONLY 6 MONTHS
UNTIL THE WORLD CONGRESS IN URUGUAY
Book early & apply for a bursary!!! (See cover)
It will be an experience of a lifetime
sharing and witnessing with God’s
people in your profession.
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UNITED KINGDOM
ETHICS: ASSISTED SUICIDE - AMENDMENT DEFEATED
What is not broken does not need fixing.
Report by Peter Saunders CMF General Secretary UK
On 7 July the House of Lords
rejected by 194 to 141 a change in
the Law on assisted suicide. The
amendment would have exempted
from investigation and prosecution
those who help terminally ill people
to travel abroad to seek assisted
suicide where it is legal. The amendment was the culmination of a
carefully orchestrated campaign by
Dignity in Dying, formally the
Voluntary Euthanasia Society built
around perceived public sympathy
for high profile cases. Ironically the
clause they were attempting to
amend had been designed for
another purpose altogether, to
prevent internet promotion of suicide.
There was strong opposition from
senior legal figures, senior doctors,
disabled peoples leaders, and faith
leaders and a robust debate where
the serious objections were seriously
laid out. Once again in this matter,
by God’s grace, sanity prevailed.
Why there was so much concern?
‘Terminally ill” was not defined and
could be applied to a wide range
of people with chronic illnesses.
The assessing doctors were not
required to know, to see, nor to
examine the person in question.
Ethics aside, on pragmatic grounds
alone, with growing numbers of
elderly people, with increasing levels
of elder abuse, the last thing needed
was to put elderly, sick or disabled
people under pressure to end their
lives. Many of them already believe
they are a financial or emotional
burden.
The next day’s newspaper reported
a case where it was alleged a
woman had tried to murder her
husband who has motor neurone
disorder, after learning insurers
would pay a six figure sum if he
died. It was a chilling reminder
that not all family members
necessarily have the best interest
of their loved ones at heart and why
the law must stay as it is.
THE AMERICAS - CANADA
Report from Dr. Roger Gingerich - Executive Director CMDS Canada
The past year has been a blessing for CMDS in Canada. We have been able to make the national ministry
of CMDS more effective as we have brought fresh ideas to the tasks at hand.
These are some of the ministry items that we have addressed:
- The CMDS National Conference which was held in British Columbia.
- Chapter Strengthening: We held a workshop at our National Conference to consider how to make the local
chapters of CMDS more successful. We plan to publish ideas in a handbook as a resource for our chapters.
- Focus magazine: We will publish three issues in 2009. The theme for the next six or seven issues is “On
the Road to Emmaus; Discussions with our Lord on ______ “(Service, Ethics, Justice, Poor, Giving, others?).
- Prayer Letter: On a monthly basis we circulate a prayer letter by email. The goal again is to foster a sense
of responsibility among members as we pray for and learn about each others ministry and needs.
For the rest of 2009 and in to 2010, we have plans to increase CMDS ministry and encourage the building
on Kingdom values in the CMDS and to reach others in Canada
DENTAL CARE FOR THE HOMELESS by Dr. Tom Harie
Excerpts from Focus Journal Canada
As a prosthodontist in Ottawa, I
have no doubt that the Spirit works
in mysterious ways. I had just
returned from a trip with “Health
Teams International (Canada)” to
North Korea where we were
bringing basic oral care to the
impoverished. I was recounting
my trip to one of my clients when
he commented that there were
significant dental needs right here
at home in Ottawa.
Diane Morrison, Executive Director
of “The Ottawa Mission”, and
presented her
with a proposal for
the clinic. Little
did I know that a
In March 2006 I approached few months earlier
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AROUND THE GLOBE
the mission had already decided
that it was going to open a primary
health care clinic. They wanted to
incorporate a dental section, but
had no idea how to go about
making that happen… and here,
just a few short months later, the
plan was handed to them!
dentists, hygienists and dental
assistants provide a wide range of
dental services. Since opening,
the volunteers have attended to
over 2,000 patient visits, performed
700 extractions and an equal
number of fillings and cleanings,
and have made 70 sets of dentures!
Altogether they have provided over
The clinic has since evolved into half a million dollars worth of free
the largest faith-based, volunteer- dental care.
driven, no-cost, oral health
promotion and outreach dental The ongoing commitment by the
service for the homeless in Canada. dental community has shown
A rotating team of 70 local volunteer tangible results, helping some of
the city’s homeless improve their
quality of life. One of my most
meaningful experiences at the clinic
was with a man who was losing his
battle with liver cancer and had
about six months left to live. The
clinic made him a set of dentures,
allowing him life’s simple pleasures
during his last few months. He
could smile, he could eat, and it
helped to give him back his dignity.
BOOK REVIEW - PRACTICE BY THE BOOK
Ever wonder if your practice is making an eternal difference? Do the pieces
of your life still fit together? Are you neglecting important areas of your life?
Are you a workaholic or perhaps already burned out?
Practice by the Book is just what the doctor ordered! In addition to their
own contributions, Drs Al Weir and Gene Rudd have compiled content
from more than a dozen Christian colleagues into a compendium that
teaches doctors how to live a life guided by biblical principles. Suitable for
both individual and group study.
For more information visit www.cmda.org
THE ICMDA WEDDING OF THE YEAR
Congratulations ! Congratulations ! Congratulations !
Ralph and Baiba were married at Byblos in Lebanon on Friday 4
September 2009. It was a most unforgettable and spectacular
setting as the sun set over the Mediterranean that evening. Many
family, relatives and friends come together to hear this special
couple make their life’s commitment to one another. What rejoicing
in these words of the marriage service – that they be man and wife
together.
It was a great joy for many of Ralph and Baiba’s ICMDA family and
friends to be there with them to share in this very special wedding.
We all pray God’s richest
blessings on their lives.
May they both always be
filled with the joy, peace
and love of God.
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AROUND THE GLOBE
GLIMPSES OF GOD AT WORK
FROM THE PAGES OF TODAY’S CHRISTIAN DOCTOR SUMMER 2009
Abstracts from Understanding your Mission by John Crouch (Adapted from ‘Practice by the Book’
God has given all Christians a it out to its
THREE QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELF
universal mission to work with c o m p l e t i o n .
Him as Lord to redeem the world. One minister
1) Am I living fully the mission for which
“All authority in heaven and on put it this way,
God created me?
earth has been given to me. Go “I’ve got my
therefore and make disciples of own spiritual
2) What dream of service has God placed
all nations, baptizing them in the DNA.”
on my heart?
name of the Father and of the
3)
What personal goals must I set aside
Son and of the Holy Spirit, God may call
in order to radically change my direction
teaching them to observe all that us out from our
from “seeking temporary success” to
I have commanded you, and lo, everyday life
I am with you always, to the close of mission
“Finding eternal significance?”
of the age.” (Matt. 28: 18-20, to special
Revised Standard Version [RSV]). missions that
Once we have accepted Christ as may be short-term or lifelong. calling them to some special work
Lord, we come under this Such missions may require a that changed their life’s routne
command and this mission as disruption of our routine lives in for God’s purpose.
part of our lives.
order to accomplish His special
purpose. “For it you keep silence Any missions God calls us to may
God has also created each of us at such a time as this, relief and be a large or a small part of the
with an individual mission for our deliverance will rise for the Jews life mission for which He created
lives. Each of us must seek that from another quarter, but you and
mission and live it out if our lives your father’s house will perish. us. Only God knows how the
are to be fulfilled. “For we are His And who knows whether you have whole plan fits together. Oswald
workmanship, created in Christ not come to the kingdom for such Chamber’s greatest legacy for the
Jesus for the good works, which a time as this?” (Esther 4:14, Kingdom was not his mission to
God prepared beforehand, that R S V ) . M a n y d o c t o r s c a n North Africa during the First World
we should walk in them.” (Eph. remember a night by a soda War, but the sermons his Wife
2:10, RSV). God has a special machine, a campfire service, a collected into the book, My
plan for each of our lives. We tap on the shoulder, or a cry from Utmost for His Highest, after his
must long for it, seek it, and carry the pulpit that was God’s way of death in North Africa.
EIGHT GUIDELINES FOR
FINDING AND FULFILLING
YOUR MISSION
will. “You will seek me and find
me when you seek me with all
your heart.” (Jer. 29:13, RSV)
missions if we trust Him to the
point of obedience. When God’s
call comes, the first challenge
is to obey what we know to do
first. God seldom reveals our
whole life mission all at once.
It unfolds one step at a time
and our challenge is to confirm
the next step as God’s call and
obey one step at a time.
Obedience is at the heart of
each step.
3)Our call or mission becomes
most clear when we are
involved in kingdom work where
we are right now. “Well done,
good and faithful servant; you
have been faithful over a little,
I will set you over much.” (Matt.
25:21, RSV). God most often
comes to us with a new, vital
mission if we have proven to
Him through our everyday life 5)God will likely
place you in
of mission that we can be
circumstances
trusted.
2)Wanting God’s will is 99% of
outside your
what is required to find God’s 4)God will more likely call us to
comfort zone.
1)Realize that we all have a
significant mission in kingdom
work – we need only be open
to receiving it and obedient in
following it. Sometimes it may
seem that some folks have been
given a great and clear vision
from God as if such people are
special in God’s plan. But God
has planned and promised a
mission for each of us.
13
6)Our failures may be stepping
accomplish. “But he said to me
stones to God’s successes. “For
‘My Grace is sufficient for you, for
as the rain and snow come down
my power is made perfect in
from heaven, and return not
weakness.’ I will all the more gladly
thither but water the earth, making
boast of my weaknesses, that the
it bring forth and sprout, giving
power of Christ may rest on me.”
seed to the sower and bread to
(2 Cor. 12:9, RSV)
the eater, so shall my word be
that goes forth from my mouth; 8)God’s plan demands personal
sacrifice. Whether or not we are
it shall not return to me empty,
called to drop our comfortable
but it shall accomplish that which
lives and go overseas, we will not
I purpose, and prosper in the
follow Christ fully without letting
thing for which I have sent it” (Is.
go of something we hold dear.
55:10-11, RSV)
German martyr Dietrich
7)God will provide the power
Bonhoeffer wrote, “When Jesus
necessary to accomplish His
calls a man, He bids him come
mission and will most visibly
to die.” Accept your loss on the
demonstrate His power in our
front end, and then follow the call.
weakness. It is our business to
obey; it is God’s business to Those of us who are older can look
back on our lives and realize that
much of our time on Earth has been
spent doing good things that don’t
really matter in the long run. We
have accumulated nice things that
satisfy only temporarily and fall apart
with the sands of time. We have
used our skills to help people live a
few years longer. We long for our
lives to matter in an important and
lasting way. A life that matters is
exactly what God has planned for
each of us, and He has woven
mission into the tapestry of our lives
even before we were born. God has
created us for mission and He is
calling us to follow.
STUDENT & JUNIORS NEWS, PRAISE & PRAYER
SINGAPORE – NEWS FROM REAL
M2: Doctors & Students Gathering
By Ms Tan Wai Jia
The past few M3 student-doctor gatherings kicked
off with the vision of building long-term relationships
between Christian doctors and students. Now
that the M2s are entering their clinical years, they
hope to keep their fellowship alive through such
gatherings. At their very first M2 doctor-student
gathering on April 16, here’s what two students,
Andrew and Grace, had to say:
weekend night off at just a week’s notice?
How very wrong I was. God proved his faithfulness
once again. We were not only able to invite four
seniors, but also three doctors. Dr. Wong LC, Dr.
Raj, and Dr. King-Hee to speak to us. We were
greatly blessed by their knowledge, advice and
sharing.
The evening was a time of lessons learnt and to
be learnt. We were greatly encouraged that there
As second-year medical students moving on to are fellow medical brothers and sisters who care
our third year, there’s a gigantic leap from lecture- and help us in our own journey to serve Him in
style learning to clinical and bedside lessons. We the medical field.
juniors hear stories of how people become Grace:
confused and lost in wards, not knowing what to
expect. A fellow medical student Grace I found the sharing to be very insightful and
approached me, suggesting a seniors-cum-doctors powerful, especially on how clinical years in the
gathering to prepare our fellow batch mates for wards are akin to attending the best bible college,
whatever excitement (or horror) to expect. There where the experiences and people you meet will
was one slight problem – we were slightly more help you grow in your faith and knowledge of God.
than a week away from the proposed
gathering date. At such short notice, Pray for our Christian fellowship as we strive to
chances of inviting any doctors or meet weekly in our individual hospitals, and also
seniors were very slim. Which busy for doctor mentors to be available to guide us on
doctor would be able to afford one this journey.
Andrew:
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EGYPT
News on the Medical Conference
Excerpts From a Report By Mr. Don Corry
“How can I have this personal relationship with
Jesus that others have?” This was the question
posed to me as I engaged with a young Coptic
medical student. Later that evening he was part of
the family of God.
We had left the bitter Canadian cold late in January,
travelling through London to arrive around midnight
in Cairo. “R”, who is a recent graduate from medical
school, met us and took us to his parent’s apartment.
Early the next day we boarded a bus filled with
eager students and travelled north to the ancient
city of Alexandria, where we spent five days learning
and worshipping with 120 Christian medical students.
The crowd consisted of various Christian sects,
including many from the Coptic Church.
Conversations were in Arabic, but we had students
to translate for us.
(orthalmologist) was able to share in the evening
her experience in medicine from a single woman’s
perspective. Many Christian’s face discrimination
and are restricted from some specialities. This
negative prospect is even more pronounced for
women. Still, we are impressed with the student’s
courage, faith, Bible knowledge and commitment
to worship.
The dream is to see Egyptian Christian medical
personnel equipped to have a ministry throughout
the Middle East. There may be opportunities in
Egypt. We are trying to determine if we should
make this an ongoing partnership with our spiritual
family in Egypt. We would appreciate prayers for
wisdom as we process these opportunities.
Worship dealt with Excellence as a witness to Jesus
in a hostile world. On the first night a celebrated
Coptic priest shared his heart for evangelism and
thrilled the students with his humour and candour.
As a former psychiatrist turned evangelist, he
Mr. Don Corry is the Associate Staff member at
brilliantly led the main sessions.
McMaster Medical School. He has worked with
Practical workshops on Christian Identity, Spiritual Navigators in Hamilton for over 25 years. Don
J o u r n a l i n g a n d M e n t o r i n g . P a t H a r v e y finds it a joy to mentor young adults.
SOUTH AFRICA
CMF strongly supported the events that took place on all the various campuses throughout the year.
These included 4 student camps held around the country, the Missions Week held on Tygerberg medical
Campus, 6 dedication services for the graduating students, in which over 200 students dedicated
themselves to the Lord’s work.
ARMENIA
The CMF UK/CSUA Camp
2009 from Dan Martin
CSUA, Christian Students' Union
of Armenia, is the Armenian arm
of IFES (International Federation
of Evangelical Students). For some
years now, CMF UK has run a
collaborative camp with CSUA in
Armenia for medical and dental
students. These camps are
evangelistic and hence have
provided a medical context within
Armenia is a small Caucasian state nestling between Georgia,
Azerbaijan, Turkey and Iran. Its history is rich and diverse;
Armenia was the first country to declare Christianity as the
state religion in 300AD. It was previously a member of the
Soviet republic.
which to present the Christian Christians with little or no prior
contact with CMF UK or IFES. All
Gospel.
students received a New Testament
Forty medical and dental students in the Armenian
attended the camp. The camp was language on the
residential, held in a hotel in the opening night. The
town of Tsaghadzor. The vast camp timetable
majority of these students were non- was focused
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AROUND THE GLOBE
around five strands; Gospel talks
occupying the first slot of the day,
followed by small discussion
groups. Medical talks or workshops
were given before lunch. Ethical or
apologetic talks were given in the
afternoon.
to be very stimulating for many of
up these students
the students, as in previous years. - The Holy Spirit to be working
They also required the most
powerfully in each of their hearts
competent translation in order to
to give them a love for Scripture
avoid misunderstandings. 'Why
and a desire to be a committed
believe anything at all', 'sex and
part of a church family.
marriage from a Biblical - God's guidance and clarity with
perspective', 'the value of life', and
regards to the bigger picture and
We were privileged to have a 'suffering from a Biblical
vision for these camps.
bilingual speaker, Stepan perspective' were this year's topics.
- May be an increased focus in the
Avanesyan, giving the Gospel talks
this year. He co-founded and co- At the end of the camp the CSUA
future on the strategic training of
ordinates the Centre for Leadership team felt that around half of the
particular individuals, both
Development in Yerevan (the capital students had either become
students and doctors, within the
city), which aims to teach and train Christians or were very keen for
medical community in Yerevan,
graduates about leadership follow up on campus to read more
with the emphasis particularly on
principles, from a Christian of the Bible and explore Biblical
teaching a Biblical framework of
perspective. He previously studied Christianity further.
medical ethics. A focus on
at London Bible College (now
growing these camps into a bigger
London School of Theology). Prayer Points - The Way Ahead:
event
The ethical/apologetic talks proved - Wisdom for the team in following
AUSTRALIA
ST LUKES NEWSLETTER – MERCY AT IMPACT
By Judy Fitzmaurice
The theme of the conference was Mercy. Speakers Dr Andrzej
Turkanik from Austria, Rev Dr David Williams, Rev Tim Costello plus
our own, Drs Rosemary Isaacs, Alan Gijsbers and Maleika Selwyn
explored this theme from various perspectives shedding much light!
MISSION’S CHAPTER LAUNCH
At the recent IMPACT conference, there was an official launch of an exciting new initiative of CMDFA
– the Missions Chapter. We recognise that there are many amongst our membership who are experienced
in missions or are experiencing missions currently. As a fellowship, we would like to harness the vast
amount of knowledge out there to help promote missions amongst our membership and support our
current missionaries.
RECENT GRADUATE AND STUDENT WORK (REGS) AUSTRALIA
Kathryn Stone was elected as the next National Student Representative at the IMPACT conference.
She studies medicine at the Australian National University (ACT) and has been a significant contributor
to student work both local and on a national level. She will take over from Suzanne Arulogun in
December this year. Suzanne has served the fellowship wonderfully as National Student Representative.
Dr Jeremy Beckett has been very busy:- Assisting the team with preparations of the IMPACT conference
- Leading a Short Term Mission of students and recent graduates from WA to Bail.
- Speaking at the Transfusion Conference in NSW in April and Christian Medical Fellowship
conference held in Christchurch, new Zealand in May.
- Continuing training and work as a rural GP and anaesthetist in Geraldton, Western
Australia.
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AROUND THE GLOBE
EASTERN AFRICA - RWANDA Kenya. In addition, we have
REPORT ON THE 2009
STUDENTS REGIONAL
CONFERENCE
By Dr. Mesfin Beyero
Eastern Africa regional ICMDA is
bringing together Christian medical
students and junior doctors every
two years for fellowship,
encouragement, spiritual
refreshment and for being shaped
in the likeness of Jesus in their
campuses and in their professional
career as doctors. Two years ago,
during the conference in Moshi,
Tanzania in 2007, it was decided
by the regional committee that
Rwanda should host the next
conference. The decision was made
recognizing the fact that the country
does not have a well established
students’ movement and that CMF
– Rwanda was non-existent. The
other side of the story tells us that
Rwanda have revived, energetic
and God-fearing students who have
their faith in the Lord and who were
courageous enough to say ‘yes we
can do it with the Lord’, and this
conference was a live testimony of
the step of faith.
The conference was held in Butare,
Rwanda from April 30th to May 3,
2009 within the premises of the
National University of Rwanda. The
university very generous and
provided such a beautiful and big
auditorium free of charge, praise
the Lord! The university also
provided lodging and catering
services with reasonable price. The
Evangelical church provided their
‘Shalom’ guest house for three of
the speakers free of charge. May
the Good Lord bless the university
and the church for the support they
provided!
The conference brought together
more than 180 brothers and sisters
from seven countries in the region
i.e. Rwanda, Uganda, Burundi,
Ethiopia, Sudan, Tanzania, and
participants from South Africa (the
Southern Africa region ASR), from
U.S.A and UK who have facilitated
and/or attended part of the
conference.
Eastern Africa region.
The regional students’ committee
meeting was also held. Each country
has briefly reported on the status
of the student movements within
their respective countries on the
three major areas:
- progress to date,
- major challenges and
- Testimonies.
Dr. Jean Kagia made the opening
remarks on behalf of Dr. Mesfin
Beyero, the ASR for Eastern Africa
region. The history of ICMDA, its
objectives and aims, and basis of
membership was presented. It was a wonderful time of sharing
experiences, and getting moved by
The main theme of the conference what the Lord has been doing in
was taken from Ephesians 2:10 the region. The committee has
entitled “Called to serve”. Bible appreciated the commitment of the
exposition from the book of Daniel, Rwandese brothers and sisters and
taking him as a model, has been how the Lord has used them to
presented by Pastor Antoine make this conference a success.
Rutayisire from Rwanda in three The committee has finally pointed
out areas that we can work together
sessions.
as a group in the region and also
The main lessons learnt from the focus within our own national
life of Daniel were:
movements individually.
- Preparing to serve (He was These were:
prepared)
- Conducting joint medical missions,
- Competent to serve, and (He was - Strengthening student – doctor
competent), and
mentorship program,
- Consecrated to serve. (He was - Student electives exchange
consecrated)
program, and
We were all challenged by the fact - Develop a foundation for
sponsoring students.
that “God is waiting for sacrifice on
the altar for the fire of service to The meeting was concluded by
fall.” It was a time of commitment, proposing Burundi to host the next
decision and repentance and conference in two years time.
consecration. May the Good Lord
help us to put ourselves on the altar The conference participants visited
for the fragrance of sacrifice to come one of the genocide memorial sites
out and influence the world! and prayed for God’s healing in the
post-genocide era. Healing and
Four different seminars were reconciliation testimonies have been
presented by different speakers. presented by Tutsi and Hutu
brothers in the evening of the same
These were:
day. International cultural
- Problems Facing the Health Sector presentation has been made in the
by Prof. Iraka, National University last evening of the conference.
of Rwanda.
- Role of Christian medics in health We give glory and praise to our Lord,
care by Tom Wright from U.S.A., and appreciate the Rwandese
- Christianity versus abortion by Dr. brothers and sisters for their
Jean Kagia, General Secretary, dedication and
ICMDA Eastern Africa region, and commitment to
- Medical Students/Doctors and the work of the
Evangelism by Dr. Mesfin Beyero, Lord.
Area Student representative, Hallelujah!
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REVIEWS
www.blueletterbible.org
By Abigail Brempah Third year medical student
at University College London
This free and interactive website facilitates in-depth
Bible study through a number of tools and features.
It is attractive, informative and user-friendly. Fourteen
different Bible translations are supported.
There are introductions to, and summaries of, the books
of the Bible, commentaries from over 20 sources
(including audio and video), a number of maps and
images, and a list of scriptures that commonly cause
confusion with the intended meanings. There is a
choice of three devotionals, a Daily Reading Program
(with links to study aids), and the opportunity to listen
to passages in your preferred translation of the Bible.
The search tool allows searches by word and phrase,
Strong’s concordance’ number, and for original Hebrew
or Greek roots of English words.
It’s worth noting that some of the explanations come
from differing theological perspectives and there are
undoubtedly things some would disagree with – such
as the timeline describing the events of Revelation.
However this does not devalue the excellent search
and referencing tools on the site.
The website is easy to use and navigate, and has the
Help Tutorial guides to unable you to gain more from
it. Perhaps you are used to your hardcopy Bible but
why not give the website a try? You may be surprised
at how much it will enhance your Bible study.
POLAND
CMF/STUDENT PROJECT
As the CMF Poland we want to reach out to
the medical and dental students of the 1st
year with a special leaflet insert to the official
magazine for medical students in 3 Polish
medical universities. This will be followed by
the student camp in Zakopane in September
2009 as a co-project with the Polish Campus
Crusade for Christ. The teaching will include
both practical medical issues, techniques of
successful learning as well as biblical seminars
and talks.
CANADA
ICMDA REPORT – WESTERN STUDENT
RETREAT
From Dr. Roger Gingerich
This took place in Alberta in January with over
60 students in attendance. Dr. Sheila and Terry
Harding provided the leadership for this retreat
with the National Office doing all that we can to
facilitate this ministry.
UNITED KINGDOM
THE NUCLEUS
Hugh Ip former editor has reluctantly put
down his pen to focus on the business of
passing finals. We wish him success in the
exams!
Pete Mackley, the new editor, is already finding
it challenging and enriching. May the Lord
give His wisdom to this very important ministry.
CMF NEWS – NEW STAFF MEMBER
A Testimony from a CMF UK Staff Worker Matt Lillicrap
Who are you, and how did you end up in CMF News?
My name’s Matt and I’m starting as the North-East CMF staff worker. My wife, Anika and I came to
Newcastle to study medicine in 2001 and qualified in 2006. I’ve been working full time since, and
am coming to the end of in Core Medical Training.
So why are you becoming a CMF staff worker?
As a student, CMF was a great support to me, especially in teaching me how Jesus’
lordship should shape me as a doctor. I pray that as a staff worker God would use me
to help medical students work this out in their lives. I know that he will have lots more
to teach me too.
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AROUND THE GLOBE
That sounds great. How do you actually do this in the two days
a week you have?
I’ll be supporting the student CMF leaders as they run their groups,
and seek to grow in godliness and understanding of biblical ethics.
I also hope to encourage and equip them in evangelism.
How can we be praying for you as you prepare for and start
your new role?
- For wisdom to know how best to use the CMF time I have each week.
- That I would get to know the students quickly and be an encouragement
to them.
- That I would be a godly example in my medical work.
NUCLEUS SERIES - HEROES AND HERETICS
Alex Bunn encourages us to learn from History
We evangelicals rarely know much
history. We are wary of venerating
the lives of ‘saints’, but as a result
we forget the trail blazers and role
models, who fought key battles
for gospel truth and values.
I have called this series Heroes
and Heretics because we need to
celebrate the heroes, but also
oppose heresy. You may think
that heresy is too strong a word,
but the stakes are high. Jesus
himself warned against the false
teachers and bad shepherds of
his day who ‘shut the kingdom of
heaven in men’s faces.’
Let’s start with a hero from the
pagan context into which Jesus
and his followers launched the
church. Imagine you are a
medical student doing your
paediatric attachment in the
ancient Roman Empire. As you
do your newborn baby checks,
you are guided by the authorities
of the day. You have read the
textbook by Soranus, the top
Roman Physician who describes
the routine for a baby check.
Above: Matt Lillicrap with his
wife, Anika and daughter, Charis
If the child was disabled in any
way, it was regarded in the same
way as a troublesome animal.
‘Mad dogs we knock on the head,
the fierce and savage the ox we
stay, unnatural progeny we
So far so good. You will have destroy, we drown even children
i d e n t i f i e d a n y s i g n i f i c a n t who at birth are weakly and
anatomical, neurological or abnormal.’
developmental abnormalities. But
the purpose of the exam was very The modern equivalents to pagan
different to today.
attitudes are clear, much prenatal
‘…and by conditions contrary to screening can be defined as a
those mentioned, the infant not ‘search and destroy’ policy. Those
worth rearing is recognised.’ humans who are least developed
are sacrificed for the interests of
Screening for abnormalities was the strong. Peter Singer has even
performed not to identify need, revived the idea that infanticide is
but to weed out defective children merely an ethical extension of
to be discarded. The ancient modern abortion policies. The
pagans had little regard for human assumption underlying this is that
life until it had proved its worth to the value of human life in on a
society.
sliding scale.
DR HIPPOCRATES
By Alex Bunn CMF Acting Head – Excerpts with permission. For full text go to www.cmf.org.uk
Dr Hippocrates made a radical departure from pagan tradition. His now famous oath bound doctors
to show unconditional respect for all human life, wherever it was on the scale of pagan value. His
followers swore that they would never abort or intentionally kill their patients, which would have been
totally unnecessary had not the contemporary culture practised this routinely:
‘I will not give poison to anyone, though asked to do so, nor will I suggest such a plan.
Similarly I will not give a pessary to a woman to cause abortion.’
Interestingly, our first hero was not a Christian. There was no way he could have been,
as he was born 400 years before Christ. So it is strange that the idea of the sanctity of
life is now seen as religious dogma, when it was a pagan medic who first taught it!
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CONFERENCES CALENDAR
This should not surprise Christians, though, as our profession today mostly practices medicine fitting
the God of the Bible gives all men ‘general with the image of God in each of our patients.
revelation’, in the form of conscience, so that we
all recognise what has been called ‘natural lay’
Doctors no longer swear oaths, preferring instead
to recognise merely a code. But Hippocrates
recognised the need for ‘transcendent values’,
accountability to a higher power than
themselves.
‘I swear by Apollo, Asclepius, Hygieia, and
Panacea, and I take to witness all the gods, all
the goddesses, to keep according to by ability
and my judgement, the following oath.’
The church later embraced Hippocrates’ ethics
as fitting with the Judeo-Christian tradition.
Hippocrates was simply recognising the image
of God in man that separates man from other
animals.
Whoever sheds the blood of man, by man shall
his blood be shed, for in the image of God has
God made man.
What did it cost Hippocrates personally to
practice a radical new ethic? Did he lose
business by rejecting the standard business
model of the ancient physician? Was he
pressurised by relatives with an interest to
break his oath? Was he ridiculed by the
establishment? We will never know, but we
can thank him for laying the foundations of
Western medical ethics for another two
millennia. His ethical code transformed
Western medical practice to become
distinctively patient-centred, professional,
radically egalitarian and compassionate. His
ethical code and personal example is still a
high standard for Christians to aspire to. But
thanks to this Greek physician who followed
his conscience against the prevailing culture,
PRAYER FOCUS
Pray for the many areas in Asia who have been hit by
natural disasters.
Pray for emergency relief, for those who have lost homes,
families and livelihood.
Pray especially for Sumatra, Vietnam, the Philippines and
Samoa.
Pray for the World congress, Uruguay 2010
- The committee and volunteers who are doing the
planning and preparation.
- That the bursary fund will be well supported so that
people from other countries will be able to afford
the travel.
- For the speakers as they listen for God’s guidance
and wisdom.
Pray for those who faithfully serve the Lord to bring
the gospel, to care for the sick, poor and abused in
areas where it is hard to be a Christian.
Pray for the many CMF’s around the world who
encourage each other to reach out with the Gospel
into their communities and professions.
Pray for Christian doctors working in Pakistan and
for the other Christian workers who need encouragement and prayer support.
CONFERENCES CALENDAR
2009
10 -13 Dec
2010
1-8 July 2010
National Conferences
CMDA Student, Absuth, Aba, Nigeria
World Congress
Punte del Este, Uruguay
More information can be obtained on the ICMDA website
under conferences (www.icmda.net)
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this preferred address. For useful websites and resources, visit the ICMDA website resource bank.
The opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of ICMDA. Translations of NPP are
encouraged and permissible
NEXT ISSUE DEADLINE - 30 NOVEMBER 2009
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