Medical Missionary Work in Bolivia by F. A. Stahl

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Feb 24, 1910

Medical Missionary Work in Bolivia

By F. A. Stahl

We are thankful for the openings God has given and is giving us in Bolivia. We felt that the best way to begin operations here would be to introduce the medical work first, as we could render efficient service in that, even though we did not know the language. We were informed that there was a great deal of prejudice toward all foreigners engaged in medical work; but we trusted the Lord for guidance, and in a quiet way let it be known that we understood how to care for the sick. Soon we received a call from one of the first Bolivian families. This family is so prominent that the two physicians on the case would not dare turn us down, even if they felt so inclined. I also visited other doctors, and explained our methods (most of them understand German). They admitted that these were new to them, and they gave me a case at the hospital, to demonstrate our treatments before them. Not having any conveniences, I am having an interesting time. But the Lord is blessing, and our methods are gaining the favor of the physicians.

At the present writing, I am also nursing an Englishman, assistant manager of the new railway. He is very ill. Many Englishmen and Americans have called upon me since I have been on this case, saying they were thankful that there was a man nurse in Bolivia. These men are far from their home land, and the Lord wants them to hear the last warning message—some for the first time, others to receive the call again.

We are rejoicing that the Lord is in the medical work, and our prayer is that it may indeed prove an effective means of advancing the cause of God in this part of the field. F. A. STAHL.