Heartbreak Strengthens Resolve

As you recall, one of our primary goals is to help establish a Christian medical clinic here in Ocosingo for the indigenous people. Many are so afraid to go to the hospital because of the long history of discrimination, mysterious deaths and the absence of Tzeltal translators. This fear translates into families suffering great losses --- losses that seem so unnecessary and preventable.

In January, John and Pablo were approached by a young couple whose baby had been diagnosed with whooping cough. The doctor had told them that the illness had progressed too far and that there was nothing that they could do for her but pray. They had brought young Mariana to the
church for prayer. John, Pablo, the church elders, Colin Herbertson & Randy Duvall (from Va. Beach) prayed for Mariana that day and in the days to come. Tiny Mariana, just 6 months old, died 2 weeks later.

This experience leaves us feeling both heartbroken and more determined than ever to get this medical clinic open. Mariana's parents had access to vaccinations and could have gotten help
for Mariana sooner, but their fear kept them away. We know the Tzeltal people are not afraid to get help when it's offered through the Presbyterian church. When the medical caravans go into the villages for 2 weeks every year, the Tzeltal people come out in droves because they feel safe getting help through the church. This baby didn't have to die. Please join us in praying for,
financially supporting and helping to construct Las Manos de Cristo (the Hands of Christ Medical Clinic).

We now have an information site that allows online giving through Change.org. Just search for Hebron USA from the www.Change.org homepage to find out more. There’s even a short video that tells this story, shows you pictures of Mariana, and lets you see the status of the medical clinic project.