Editor’s note: Mark Barrett is the newly installed CUREkids Coordinator in Malawi.

Mark and Yaha

I’ve only been in place for about six weeks as the Malawi CUREkids Coordinator, but the CURE hospital in Malawi already has my heart.  It blows my mind to become so attached to a place that I’ve only known for a short time, but it’s home to me.  The staff, children, locals, management, and the entire CURE family make this job seem like a surreal experience, not work.

My arrival date in Malawi set up perfectly to really get involved with the 10^th anniversary celebration during this week.  There has been a buzz around the hospital for weeks, and the excitement flows from the staff to the patients.  Wednesday will begin a three day run of activities to commemorate the last 10 years of service.  The events include a staff softball game, a BBQ, a reception for local supporters, a thanksgiving service, and a main event celebration Friday afternoon.  All of the events will reflect CURE’s mission and spread the gospel.  I’m particularly looking forward to the staff softball game on Wednesday afternoon.  Malawians aren’t exactly familiar with the game, so we are going to tweak the rules and have fun with it.

The range of personalities among the staff is incredible, and every day is different because of the amazing people that keep the hospital functional.  The surgeons are incredibly gifted and some of the most humble men and women that you will find in any operating room.  It feels surreal working with others that put Christ first in their lives.  But then I’m reminded of the power, comfort, and grace that flows from the cross and realize that community bonded with a love for Jesus will always have moments of perfection.  He loves us and doesn’t hesitate to demonstrate that love among His people.

Some of the sights from my first six weeks: