Quarterly Issue Volume 4-2018
the
vine
News from the Mission Field
Rajshahi, Bangladesh Friday, 31 August 2018
Dr. Leslie Y. Morgan, a missionary EPC supports
An Anchor of Hope “We have this hope, a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters the inner sanctuary…” Hebrews 6:19
Dear Brothers and Sisters in faith, “You say you need a bedpan? Have your friend here go buy one in the market.” Biswanath Murmu took in the nurse’s words as he lay on a folded sheet on the grungy floor of the hot, airless cardiac care unit at the government’s regional health center in northwestern Bangladesh. With a heart rate barely fast enough to keep him conscious, he was waiting for a bed to open up in the overcrowded unit. “You need a pacemaker,” the cardiologist later told him. “If you can buy one, we’ll put it in; otherwise, you’ll probably die.” In a government health system that is supposed to provide affordable medical care, little in fact is provided. “Need an operation? Here’s a list of the intravenous fluids, syringes, sutures, dressings, medicines and other supplies you’ll need. Once you gather all these from the market, we’ll call the surgeon.” Then when your relative finally goes to the operating room, you had better tip the ward boy who wheels him there on the stretcher. Otherwise, your loved one may not get the sip of water he asks for in the recovery room or any of the other small amenities that ease the discomforts of surgery. Biswanath was weak and clammy when I first saw him in his village of Babuldang during one of my weekly field visits, and I worried that he and his poor and uneducated family would not be able to navigate their way alone through the risk-laden labyrinth of Bangladesh’s health care system to get the treatment he needed. He had waited at home, fearful not only of the costs but also of the exploitation and negligence he might suffer at the hands of corrupt and uncaring health care providers.
Biswanath Murmu, a heart patient in rural Bangladesh, had to sell his only cow to buy a pacemaker.
As all the villagers know, many doctors in Bangladesh routinely order unnecessary tests, do unwarranted medical procedures and surgeries, and prescribe excessive medicines to maximize their fees and the monthly kickbacks they receive from laboratories and pharmaceutical companies; and as a class, doctors in Bangladesh are so politically powerful, almost no one has the ability to take them to court for malpractice, no matter how injurious those practices may be. The corruption weighs the heaviest on the poor. To buy a pacemaker, Biswanath had to sell his only cow and borrow from his relatives and neighbors to come up with $1,000 in cash for the purchase, for which he received no written receipt or guarantee from the medical supply agent lurking around the cardiac care unit. Then, of course, Biswanath had to come up with all the other supplies for the procedure. As he had feared when he got sick, the cost of medical care was driving him deeper into poverty. In trying to help people like Biswanath, the small, resource-poor churches in Bangladesh face severe limitations, for the reins of the health care system are held by immensely powerful politicians and businesspeople who are accountable to no one. At the heart of the corruption is not only the sin of greed but also an ingrained disdain the haves hold for the have-nots, the rich for the poor, the educated for the illiterate, the powerful for the powerless. Churches in Bangladesh are up against what the Bible unambiguously names, evil. Yet, it is into the midst of such deep-rooted, systemic evil that Christ sends his Church for the sake of the proclamation of the gospel. In obedience to this mission, my church co-workers and I therefore use what we
the haves hold for the have-nots, the rich for the poor, the educated for the illiterate, the powerful for the powerless. Churches in Bangladesh are up against what the Bible unambiguously names, evil. Yet, it is into the midst of such deep-rooted, systemic evil that Christ sends his Church for the sake of the proclamation of the gospel. In obedience to this mission, my church co-workers and I therefore use what we have, to do what we can: We carry out a one-on-one, case-by-case, person-to-person ministry, striving to serve the sick, and during their time of suffering to provide them a sure and steadfast anchor of hope.
I work with a network of pastors, lay leaders, and other church workers in twenty-five congregations of the Church of Bangladesh to minister to the sick both within and outside our community of faith. We did for Biswanath what we try to do for everyone we find who is sick but not receiving proper care––we mobilized our network to accompany, assist, and advocate for him during his journey through the health care system. Although we were unable to pay for his pacemaker, at least we were able to help him understand his condition and the treatment he needed, accompany him at the hospital, and insure straightforward communication with his health care providers. We have found that making it known that our patients have a group of educated, church-related advocates behind them helps reduce the level of exploitation and negligence patients might suffer were they seeking treatment on their own. My co-workers and I visited Biswanath again in his home after he received his pacemaker, and we will continue to provide support for him and his family. Currently, we are actively engaged in assisting over seventy-five patients requiring ongoing medical care.
As a Presbyterian mission co-worker serving with the Church of Bangladesh, I help organize, provide training for, and directly participate in church-based, grass-rootlevel, patient-centered advocacy for health care access.
During one of my recent village visits, a middle-aged Muslim man recently paralyzed by a stroke sent word requesting my co-workers and me to visit him as well. Although his house was somewhat off our path, we went, sat with him and his family, and listened to them describe what had happened, the treatment he had received, and their apprehension about his future care. After examining him, I explained to them the nature of his stroke, the purposes of his medicines, and what he and his family could do to improve his chances of recovery. Then, with the family gathered around, we prayed for him. The man and his family were deeply moved by our visit, and we will stay in touch with them and do all we can to make sure he receives the care he needs.
Such are the opportunities I live for in Bangladesh, the times when I get to be part of a ministry that seeks in tangible ways to make evident to those who are suffering that the kingdom of God is at hand. I am deeply grateful for your faith, for it is an anchor of hope for me as I strive on your behalf to proclaim this gospel in Bangladesh. Your fellow servant,
Dr. Leslie Y. Morgan Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) Mission Co-Worker in Bangladesh Leslie.Morgan@pcusa.org Postal address:
EPCYouth EPCHigh Puerto Rico Mission Trip
We have all witnessed the terrible devastation of hurricanes over the past year. Next summer, our high school and advisors have an opportunity to make a difference in the rebuilding of a community in Puerto Rico. We are grateful to EPC for providing these opportunities for youth to go on mission trips. Each youth is asked to pay $800 which represents about 60% of the total cost per person. We are asking the congregation to consider investing in the youth of our church by donating what you can to help offset the rest of the cost. EPC has been so generous for many years, allowing many youth to have experiences like this one. We look forward to returning from Puerto Rico and sharing our Ella, experiences with you.
Will, If youMargaret, are able to make this important investment in our youth and in helping to spread the good & news of Julie the Gospel through our love to others , we would greatly appreciate it! There are several ways toPreston get involved in the missions fundraising. Bishop
You can always donate directly to the trip! Just mark your donation or use the special giving envelope labeled “EPCHigh Youth Mission Trip.�
Youth4Hire is an ongoing fundraiser.
The money earned will go directly into the youth’s account at EPC and will be used to offset the $800 each youth is asked to pay for next summer’s mission trip to Puerto Rico. This is a wonderful opportunity that not only enables our youth to be missionaries but also to build relationships within our congregation. We have already had several youth hired to do yard work, odd jobs around the house and even dog-sitting! If you need something done, consider hiring one of our youth.
Flamingo Flocking – Flyers can be found in the information boards located throughout the church. This is also an ongoing fundraiser that will go towards the overall cost of the trip. Consider flocking someone you love for their birthday or anniversary or just for fun!
Christmas Mailbox Decorations
Be a part of the high school trip to Puerto Rico by purchasing a beautiful decoration of live greenery and a bow for your mailbox! An order form us available in the glass hallway in the beautifully decorated mailbox. You may order yours by November 25, 2018 and decorating will take place the week of December 3. We are only able to decorate in 10 mile radius of the church. We are sorry that we are not able to accept orders from Greenville. All proceeds will go toward the cost of the High School Mission Trip to Puerto Rico. 34 youth and 6 adults will spend a week there in June working on hurricane relief that is still felt in that region.
EPCMiddle Enjoys Bonclarken
EPCMiddle studied what it means to be made "Perfectly Imperfect" at Bonclarken. They learned that God crafted each one of them in God's own image, and because of that, they are set apart and unique. Despite what society labels us as or what others think of them, they learned that they are valued in the eyes of God and were set apart for a distinct plan and purpose of learning, growing, and being in relationship with one another. It was a very fun weekend of worshiping in community with one another while having fun and growing in their faith. ~ Lindsey Odom
See what the middle school youth had to say about Bonclarken: “I loved all the music!” - Jacob Taaffe “It was a great and fun learning experience.” - Lucy Sanders “I really liked the food and the energizers!” - Mia Prins
Middle School Mission Trip June 9-14, 2019
Where: Asheville Youth Mission
First Presbyterian Church, Asheville, NC
How much: $350, with a $175 non-refundable deposit due December 1
Click HERE to Register for the trip!
Will also need money for 3 meals
What: Mission Immersion experiences include lodging, food, service at a variety of local
agencies, and debriefing that uses Bible study, group discussion, and art projects lead by AYM staff. Work assignments may include: cleaning, landscaping, painting, sorting donations, leading recreation with children in low-income housing, providing hospitality to guest of local homeless ministry, working with veterans or in a community garden. On Thursday, we will have a free after noon which may include hiking, tubing or visiting Montreat.
Welcome New Members!
Ken & Page Dickson Matthew & Taylor 127 Bradly Page Ct Easley, SC 29640 864-246-1792
David & Nancy Martin 805 Cleo Chapman Hwy Sunset, SC 29685 864-878-6260
Charlie & Barbara Roberts 104 Cardinal Woods Way Easley, SC 29642 864-810-3605
Stephen & Brooke Steese Nathan & Samuel 205 Ridgewood St Easley, SC 29642 864-350-7138/864-921-7464
Congratulations!
Baptism
Congratulations to
Will & Ellen Young on the birth of their daughter
Mills Storme Young born October 13, 2018 Grandparents are Paul and Pat Cook
The Sacrament of Baptism was administered to Anne Frances Lake on October 21, 2018. She is the daughter of Will and Heather Lake, and the granddaughter of Matt and Tracey Lake.
Congratulations to
Mary Katherine DuBose & Joe Lentz married on September 8, 2018
Thanks! Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, The children in our cottages are going back to school, and thanks to you, they'll be ready. Education is usually not a top priority for kids when they're placed at Thornwell. They're facing so much trauma in their lives that they can't focus on schoolwork. But your gift provides opportunities for children in need to attend tutoring sessions, the Read Right program (a program designed to improve their reading), and MOMENTUM (the summer learning program). These opportunities help our kids catch up and even get ahead in school so they can become what they were born to be. Your church is truly helping children and families in need, and I can't thank you enough! We want to thank you in person and share more stories about how you've helped children and families. We invite you to RSVP for our free, one-hour tour event by calling 888-310-0987. More than likely we have tour-events in your local area! Wr;u• for All You Do,
The Rev. Elliot M. Smith President
A donation was Designation: made in honor of Joyfor Messner spoke to our adult Sunday School classes this summer. Messner Mrs. Joy who Honorarium Contribution: $100.00 received on 8/15/2018
Thomas, 302 S Broad St., Clinton, SC 29325 888.310.9387 Thank you so much for all864.938.2100 the hard work you and your team did thornwell.org out in Bisit! From roofing in the hot sun to digging out house holds, you guys had the best attitude ever! You guys really made an impact and I know Joe really appreciated the fellowship with your awesome high schoolers. Can’t wait to see where God takes you next! Thank you again and we miss you !! God Bless, Emma Kecker Eastern Navajo Summer Intern
The Preschool @ EPC Our Current Enrollment is at 51 Children! The K4 has 17 students in the class this year with 2 Teachers: LaBarbara Machen and Kaylee Matthews. Our K3 Class has 19 students with 2 Classrooms. Teachers: Debbie Murphy, Christel Stewart, and Becca Scott. K2 has 10 children this year, with Amy Ackerman & Stacy Lamb, and Amy Adkins Assistant Teacher on Mondays. Kl has 5 students enrolled. We have Liliana Guerra, Audrey Ducker and Liz Cox as Teachers. Liliana also Teaches K3 Spanish Classes on Thursdays! The Preschool participates weekly in Chapel Time, Computer PALS, Spanish Classes, and a Music Class with Mr. Robert Norris!
Contact Jen Willey, Preschool Director @ 859-0737 or jen@easleypresbyterian.org. Also, visit The Preschool on Facebook!
October was Fire Safety Month! We had the Easley Fire Department visit with their truck and learned more about Firefighters, the Fire Truck, equipment, and what to do in case of a fire at your home. It was a great experience and each child got a chance to get in the truck for a picture and look around! We also studied pumpkins, the five senses, and celebrated with a Halloween Party!
Our Thanksgiving Program and Family Feast will be on Tuesday, November 13 from 11:00-12:00. It will be a catered lunch, with the children singing. The Preschool is out November 19-23 for Thanksgiving Break.
Amazing Grays Have Joy in the Journey The Amazing Grays have enjoyed their journey in fellowship and fun outings. In September they went to Chatooga Belle Farm for a tour and fresh apples. In October they crafted and ate lunch at the church. Next they are heading to the Grove Park Inn for lunch and to see the Gingerbread House contest.
Amazing Grays
The Amazing Grays are looking forward to a Greenville Symphony concert, an over-night trip to Charlotte to visit the Billy Graham Library, a Music Museum Tour and a Pontoon Boat Ride.
PW C ome join the EPW fellowship! Great things are happening! We sent money to the Presbyterian Disaster Assistance for relief from Hurricane Florence in S.C. We also provide a meal ministry for our members who may be in need of one. If you would like to help with this ministry, please contact Tammy Darity @864- 419-7842 or darityt@charter.net.
Poinsettia Sale!
The EPW are sponsoring a Poinseettia Sale to benefit the EPCHigh Mission Trip to Puerto Rico. Order beautiful 6 inch red poinsettias to decorate or to give as gifts! • Deadline to order and prepay is November 18. • Pick up at EPC on Friday, November 30 or Saturday, December 1. Order forms are available on the information boards around the church or at the church office.
Coming up . . . • Thank Offering Dedication & Staff “Thank You” Luncheon, November 28 at noon • Soup Sale -- more details and order forms after the Holidays! • The English Tea is finally coming back! Get your wellies and ‘brellas all sorted and spiffed up for “April Showers” on March 30, 2019. Save the Date!
COMING UP November 14 Rise Against Hunger December 2
Advent Wreath Workshop Community-Wide Advent Journey Through Easley
December 5
Children’s Gift Making Workshop Classes for Youth & Adults
December 9
11:00 am Lessons & Carols Service
December 12 Caroling @ Foothills Presbyterian Community December 19 Children’s Choir Musical December 24 5:00 pm Christmas Eve Service with Children and Youth Choirs & Candle Lighting 8:00 pm Christmas Eve Communion & Candlelight Service December 30 Worship @ 9:00 & 11:00 am 10:00 am Covered-dish breakfast
Visit www.easleypresbyterian.org for more information and to sign up.