With the Christian Council of Zambia (CCZ)

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Written October 2023

Within months of our arrival in 1968, the leader of The Salvation Army in Zambia invited me to join him at an assembly of CCZ. I found myself intrigued by this get-together of church representatives discussing matters of common interest. I found myself soon drawn into the life of the Council, even attending seminars preparing us for radio and television broadcasting! But their medical committee was of special importance, not least for planning together how best to secure better financial support from government. But it also highlighted and cultivated better acceptance of the emerging global emphasis on primary health care. 
 
One drawback was that some significant providers of health care, including Catholics were not there - a fact highlighted by experienced medical missionary from Kenya, Dr John Wilkinson. He was appointed by the Christian Medical Commission of the World Council of Churches to survey health care in Zambia. As a result CMAZ, the Churches Medical Association of Zambia, was established, independent from CCZ. I served on its committee for a decade. This mostly functioned harmoniously, with a deep sense of fellowship and friendship, but inevitably the politics of difference led to disagreements. Even among those strongly committed to the ecumenical spirit, differences can increase to the point of hostility.
 
CMAZ held one of its annual meetings at the Mindolo Ecumenical Centre. The content of the agenda has slipped from my mind, but engraved in my memory is a signpost at the centre point of the campus.  On it was the word Emmaus, with the horizontal arrow pointing in both directions. The message was subtle but clear, at least to me. Whichever way we take, he's ready to join us, and when we invite him to stay he does. He’s with us at the table,  not only in celebration of the Eucharist but in the dining room or board room, at the bedside or in the outpatient consulting room. 
 
Living with that thought has long inspired me, knowing that my faith in his presence can bring a sense of peace and togetherness. 
 
Thank you, Lord, for being there. 
 
October 2023