Healing clinics

OM International

At least that is what the name says in Greek. We would maybe call them psychiatric clinics and yet, that might also cause confusion in the minds of some. By entering these kinds of clinics you find all kinds of people: mental handicapped, old people who are not able to take care of themselves, people that deal with depression, drug and alcohol addicted people and people in different stages of illnesses, like MS.

In whatever group the people fall, one thing we see is boredom and heaviness like a blanket over the heads of these people. The “recreation hall” is full with blue smoke. What struck me in this particular clinic is the way how most of the nurses and other personnel treat the patients; without much respect and sensitivity to the people they should care about.

Some of these people I know already for 7 years, after one of our Albanian friends was hospitalized here for several months. They will very likely stay here till they die. Some have relatives that come once in a while, others don't seem to have anybody. People created in the image of God put far away from society, mostly put on drugs to keep them quiet.

Rita is like an angel. Although she herself suffers from chronic back pain, she feels herself called to go and visit these people, to talk with them, help them and share a little bit of love. It was she that invited us to organize an Easter program for these people. That's why we entered the building with about 10 people from our church, to bring a little light into this dark world and to share the Easter message through songs; songs that speak of love and of life with hope.

We watched the people and saw some of them smile, others clapped their hands or moved in the rhythm of the songs. We shared a few words for those who understood. But in the assurance where we can't reach, Jesus can come. Healing clinics… I wonder who needs more healing? These people that hunger for love or those who work here just to earn their living.

After the songs we handed out pieces of cake to all with the traditional Greek wish. “Kali anastasi, Happy resurrection!” Yes Lord, may there be resurrection indeed! The people smiled and wanted more. And we smiled back, gave a pat on the shoulder, and shared a wish. Jesus loves these people and I pray that my love might expand!

Credit: OM International
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