First Presbyterian Supports Lifesaving Medical Care in in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Report from the Global Missions Committee
Patients at the Mayamba Clinic in east Kinshasa. The clinic provides pediatric and maternity services for women and children who otherwise would not have medical care
First Presbyterian Church Knoxville recently has made significant contributions to support lifesaving medical care in the Democratic Republic of Congo, thanks to the generosity of the McMurry Fund and faithful members of the congregation.
These gifts come at a critical time, helping Presbyterian medical institutions provide both routine care and prepare for potential crisis response related to the Ebola Bundibugyo Virus Disease (BVD).
In early July, the McMurry Fund sent $70,000 to Kinshasa for the Christian Medical Institute of Kasai (IMCK). Co-founded in 1954 by Dr. Bill Rule of our congregation, IMCK has grown into a network that includes Good Shepherd Teaching Hospital in Tshikaji, PAX Clinic in Kananga, a university-level nursing school (ISTM), and a technical training school (ITM). This funding will strengthen patient care services and support the training of future healthcare professionals.
In addition, First Presbyterian contributed $5,000 to the Mayamba Clinic in eastern Kinshasa. Operated by the Presbyterian Community of Kinshasa (CPK), this clinic serves women and children in an impoverished area. The funds will repair severe roof damage that has damaged ceilings and essential equipment.
These contributions will fund critical improvements, including:
Medical equipment such as two new anesthesia machines and a solar blood bank refrigerator.
Solar power and connectivity systems to ensure reliable electricity and communication.
Training support for medical specialists.
Essential medical supplies and protective equipment for Ebola preparedness.
Technology upgrades for nursing and technical schools, including internet access and computers.
The old anesthesia machine that can no longer be used (left) alongside the new anesthesia machine included in the budget to support safe surgical care (right)
Jonathan Cameron of Friends of IMCK, who is helping lead a broader fundraising effort, expressed gratitude: “We have received donations and pledges of over $160,000. I wanted to say a special thanks to the McMurry Fund of First Presbyterian Church of Knoxville for a donation that will cover many of the projects.”
First Presbyterian’s recent gifts are part of an ongoing initiative in the church to strengthen our Congolese brothers and sisters. More reports will come soon. We are grateful for the church’s longstanding partnership in Congo and Christ’s healing ministry to communities in need.