Medical Missions Newsletter May 2026

Written By Margaret Z.

Medical Missions at 1st Presbyterian Church is committed to serving alongside global ministry partners who use community health outreach and medical care as a means of sharing the gospel within their communities. In addition to supporting international efforts, the Medical Missions Committee serves our local congregation by offering blood pressure checks and helping connect members with opportunities to participate in mission work.

Recent Events

In 2024, seven members of 1st Presbyterian traveled to Nairobi, Kenya, where they provided healthcare services in the Kibera slum. Over 500 individuals received medical assessments, treatment, medications, and spiritual care. Working alongside Kenya Mercy Ministries, led by Imbumi and Martha Makuku, the team participated in outreach connected to Kibera Reformed Presbyterian Church and Mamlaka Christian School—ministries serving one of the largest urban slums in Africa. The presence of medical mission teams continues to be a vital expression of God’s provision, meeting both the physical and spiritual needs of this community.

In 2025, three members of 1st Presbyterian, along with one participant from Rock Creek Fellowship on Lookout Mountain, traveled to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, to partner with Ethiopia ACT, a gospel-centered community outreach ministry founded by missionary Andy Warren.

This ministry serves families facing serious medical diagnoses by providing healthcare, housing support, financial assistance, and educational resources. Through this holistic care, families are not only helped out of poverty but are also introduced to the hope of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Future Opportunities

Short-term medical mission trips are designed to support and strengthen existing healthcare outreach in underserved areas of the world. While teams provide temporary care, they also help expand the long-term outreach capacity of local ministries. When necessary, continuity of care is arranged through trusted local partners.

Medical mission teams require licensed healthcare providers—including physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, dentists, and nurses—but they also rely heavily on non-medical volunteers.

There are many meaningful ways for non-medical individuals to serve, including:

  • Assisting with patient intake and checkout

  • Distributing medications

  • Helping fit and provide reading glasses

  • Offering encouragement and prayer

  • Supporting clinic setup and logistics

Anyone with a heart for service can play a valuable role on a medical mission team.

Upcoming Trip – March 2027

In March 2027, a 1st Presbyterian medical mission team will partner with individuals from other churches to return to Nairobi, Kenya.

This team will need:

  • Medical providers (physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants)

  • Dentists

  • Nurses

  • Non-medical support members

Dates are still being finalized. Please prayerfully consider joining this team as we prepare to serve and minister in Kenya.
For more information, please contact First Presbyterian World Missions.

Margaret Z.
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Medical Missions Newsletter November 2025