PBMC Foundation

"Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly beyond all that we ask or think…"
Ephesians 3:20

Letter from the Foundation President

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