For PBMC Foundation Website

The ground breaking ceremony in 1950 to initiate the construction of
the Baptist Hospital in Asunción, Paraguay was the result of
tremendous faith and tireless efforts by pioneer missionaries,
Paraguayan believers, and denominational leadership. In the face of
strong opposition and scarce resources they had secured
governmental permission, strategic property, and unlikely funding to
make this vision a reality. This dream of a medical ministry opened its
doors December, 1952, as an evangelical witness on the outskirts of
the sleepy capital of Paraguay.

In the first few days of operation their medical credibility was
challenged with a very delicate delivery. Both the mother and child
were saved. Within the year national nurses and doctors began to
receive training. A man was chided by his devout Catholic neighbor
for seeking attention at the hospital and he responded, "All my life I
have heard about God’s love, but this is the first place I have actually
seen it in action!"

Yes, the Hand of the Lord was very evident in all the events to bring
about and establish the medical work in Paraguay. But even those
early missionaries, who were the protagonists in making this dream a
reality, could not envision the literal millions of lives that would be
touched, thousands that would be brought into the Kingdom of God
though this ministry and the growth in medical complexity and
advancements by national Baptist leadership.

In five decades the Lord has done "exceedingly abundantly beyond"
the original human vision for the ministry and testimony of the Baptist
Medical Center in Asunción, Paraguay. Important to remember,
however, is that His Vision for this institution is far from over. The
progress and spiritual productivity experienced thus far is evidence of
even greater Purpose in the future.

Our foundation has been supremely blessed to be involved in the
ministry in Paraguay through medical mission trips. Volunteers are
amazed upon arrival, expecting a “bush hospital” and instead find a
modern medical complex. Then they are astounded at the level of
support so willingly provided by the personnel of the Medical Center.

A volunteer might be "counting pills" in the Pharmacy with the
Administrator or assisting with patients for the Medical Director. Their
involvement and "ownership" in these community clinics says more
than words ever could of their passion and dedication. Spiritual
rewards are great for all involved: patients, families, and volunteers.

Another vital role of our foundation is to provide financial assistance
for construction, equipment purchases, and scholarships. The
hospital receives no financial support from any source other than the
PBMC Foundation. Mature and intelligent management have enabled
them to maneuver through a national economic crisis that has
crippled or destroyed most other private hospitals in the country. At
the same time they have significantly reduced indebtedness,
expanded ministry programs and made critical program
improvements.

Presently, on a step of faith, they have completed a desperately
needed Imaging Center to upgrade facilities and equipment from
1970’s technology. They have completed this impressive construction
project totally on their own, but need our assistance in equipment
acquisition. Our goal is to make available $100,000 to them.

Their heroic faith and vision are truly inspirational and deserve our
admiration and support. Please prayerfully consider being a part of
the Lord’s plan to continue to go "exceedingly abundantly beyond
what we ask or think". They are moving ahead on faith—let’s
participate in their exciting and purposeful journey. Your assistance
can make a vital difference!

Marlin Harris
PBMCF President

FOUNDATION MEMBERS

BOARD
Mr. Marlin Harris
Foundation President,
Chairman of the Board
Marbury, AL

Dr. Gary Draper
Vice President
Mrs. Mary Draper
Springfield, IL

Dr. Ed Timmerman
Treasurer
Charleston, SC

Dr. Benjamin Bedford
Emeritus
Albuquerque, NM

Mr. Joe Ball
Mrs. Vicki Ball
Shepherdsville, KY

Mr. Neal Buchanan
Secretary
Mrs. Gail Buchanan
Nashville, TN

Mr. John Childs
Tyler, TX

Mrs. Shirley Cravens
Emeritus
Sun City West, AZ

Rev. Garry Haskins
Poteau, OK

Rev. William Hickman
Emeritus
Rock Hill, SC

Rev. Gail Joule
Mrs. Jerry Joule
McAllen, TX

Mr. Norman King
Mrs. Tiffany King
Kennedale, TX

Mr. Jerry Kutch
Burleson, TX

Mr. Robert McGough
Poteau, OK

Dr. William Richardson
Troy, IL

Dr. William Skinner
Nashville, TN

Mr. Al Hethcock
Executive Director
Arlington, TX