Evangelization and health for needy communities in Ecuador
The Christian Life Movement (CLM) in Ecuador carried out its second Medical Brigade last July, benefiting five communities near the city of Guayaquil . This effort, organized and executed by members of the Christian Life Movement (CLM) and local volunteers, was distinguished by its focus on evangelization as the core of the service, according to Kelly Mendoza, head of CLM Missions in Ecuador.
This year’s Medical Missions marked a milestone as it was the first visit to three of the five communities served. Not only did it provide medical care, but it also addressed urgent needs such as malnutrition and parasites in children. In addition, the missionaries were able to participate in Holy Mass in two localities where the Eucharist is celebrated only once a month, complementing this experience with dialogues of faith that strengthened the community.
Kelly Mendoza highlighted the diversity and generosity of the volunteers who, although they came from different backgrounds and professions, came together in a common mission. “Many people collaborated by donating medicines, goods, and Providence has shown itself greatly through that,” she said.
The impact of medical missions: A grateful community
Misael Maquilon, director of the Sabanilla Elementary School, expressed his gratitude for the work carried out during the MVC Medical Missions in Ecuador. “Health is one of the most important things for the children of our educational community,” he stressed the positive impact that the brigade had.
She also highlighted “the kind and cordial treatment from the doctors and volunteers”, who were always willing to help parents and their children. “We will always be grateful for the help received and we hope to continue to benefit from this great work,” she added.
Doctors in Missions MVC: When heart and faith guide service
Dr. Lucy Chávez Murrillo, a pediatrician, shared her profound experience during the MVC Medical Missions in Ecuador, where she had the opportunity to provide care to children in a community marked by simplicity and humility. “God has given me the opportunity to help others with a grain of sand by providing medical care to the children of this beautiful community,” she said.
In this environment, the essence of life away from the modern hustle and bustle was palpable: “Where time and technology are left aside. There is no clock to rush or message to disturb.”
For her part, Dr. Ketty Meneces, a general practitioner, highlighted: “The experience has not only been about collaborating with medical knowledge, giving medicine and giving talks, but also about sharing a little piece of each one of our hearts in every act we perform.”
Finally, he highlighted how each act of service, from listening to evangelizing, became an expression of love for one’s neighbor, making the mission a unique experience of mutual learning and gratitude for God’s grace.