Thought I would drop you a note about our third medical mission trip, which was an emotional, spiritual and physical success. Our team consisted of two physicians, two surgeons, four dentists, four nurses, two pharmacists; two optometrists, one individual concerned with logistics and one pastor…me. Several things made this a unique and dynamic trip.  

One of our optometrists, Dr. Tajiri, has developed an instrument that allows the diagnoses of eye problems; the lenses needed to correct that problem and then production the glasses on the spot. This was the first time this has ever been attempted in the field…anywhere in the world. The instrument was a tremendous success and a true miracle to see people walk out being able to see. Plus we were the second Christian medical team ever allowed into Vientiane Laos PDR. (The first team that was from Korea was asked to leave last year but we were able to complete our trip.) I was able to bring greetings from Dr. Borden to the Lao Evangelical Church and spent three complete days serving and sharing with Christians and the Laotian people.  

We also were able to visit Northern Thailand where we have established a ministry to the Akha people in the mountains and villages. What a joy to return to sights that were originally established by American Baptists in the early years of our mission outreach as a denomination. To re-establish relations and to be told over and over again how thankful the people were to have the American Baptists back. We were able to see over 2,085 patients in nine working days, this doubled our outreach from the last trip.  

One of the unique ministries we have helped to establish in Northern Thailand, along with our medical programs, is a cattle ministry. Last year we purchased two bulls to help the poor bring beef into the village economy and boost their protein intake through meat and milk with the hopes of lifting the health of the villagers. We now have thirteen cows and two bulls which is changing the lives of entire communities.

I sent some pictures to Rev. Bennett in case you might be interested. Keep us in your prayers as we are sending another team back to Laos in July to take 550 wheelchairs to the disadvantaged. So, please keep us in mind as we continue to follow God’s mandate to preach the Gospel of Good News, to love and to serve.

Your Brother in Christ,

Danny Jack
First Chinese Baptist Church Fresno