The Mercy Minute

Nurse Karen stepped out onto the gangway of the Mercy Ship, looking for some fresh air.

This Sunday is Father's Day, a day to celebrate the incredible men who show up for their families.

How long would you wait for help? How far would you go for healing?

Recently, I shared the story of Doxie and her son, Alfredo, from Madagascar.

Even before her son was born, it was clear that Doxie would do anything for her child. 

Yesterday was World Blood Donor Day, so I want to share something you may not know about Mercy Ships volunteers.

When twin sisters began to walk, it was clear their journey wouldn't be easy. 

Last time, I shared how a young woman in West Africa named Sadio came to Mercy Ships to find healing. 

A young woman in West Africa named Sadio was suffering from a dangerous disease called noma. 

Houmou's mother sat gently cleaning her daughter's face.

Recently, a Mercy Ships supporter shared a beautiful insight into their charitable giving.

Marty was doing research for a book he was writing, when he stumbled on Sister Clare's story. 

When Steve last saw Anaza, she was recovering from surgery to remove a life-threatening tumor. 

Dorothy, Edith, and Rasani had a unique role with Mercy Ships.

Recently, I shared the story of a woman unable to find care.

A woman was in labor with her fourth child.

Two brothers had been born with club feet, a condition that left their feet twisted inwards.

Anaza was known for her laughter.

Years ago, a group of Mercy Ships crew members were celebrating their time in South Africa with a special show for people in the city.

In a secluded African hut, a man lay dying of cancer.

Did you know that today is Africa Day? 

At first glance, 61-year-old Germaine appears fragile. 

When I was serving as a doctor aboard a Mercy Ship in West Africa, I heard about a group of children who caught our team's attention. 

Amie looked down at her newborn son.

One night, a nurse named Ellen paused during her rounds aboard a Mercy Ship and looked across the hospital ward. 

There's an old saying that goes, "Necessity is the mother of invention." 

There's nothing like the energy of a happy little boy.

During my time aboard a Mercy Ship in Sierra Leone, there was an extraordinary woman named Lamarana.

Today, I'd like to share an African proverb that means a lot to us at Mercy Ships.

Where is the best place you've ever celebrated your birthday? 

At Mercy Ships, we couldn't bring healing without our dedicated volunteers and supporters.

African sunsets are truly breathtaking — and for Vuyani, they were one of the few things he could still see.    

Walking had never been easy for Assiatou.

Marie was just 15 years old when a lump began growing in her throat. 

In the Bible, Jesus says that even faith as small as a mustard seed can move mountains. 

Lalaina was desperately praying that God would bless her with a second child. 

At just 12 years old, Pierre already understood the importance of hard work.

Two men sat side by side in a hospital ward, and at a glance it was clear they had something in common. 

There was a small shack where a woman lived.

Awa hugged her eight-year-old son before sending him to school.

I recently spoke with a young mother who works with us.

Right now, the Africa Mercy is in a quieter season of our mission.

Imagine your entire world being reduced to places others might carry you to.

Zara sat on the beach watching nine-year-old Clerette play.  

Over the years, our crew has received countless notes of encouragement from people back home.

Jesus often spoke about water during His time on earth, using it to point to something far greater… Himself as living water, the source of eternal life. 

What does restored dignity look like? 

Have you ever felt like you weren't talented enough to serve God?

What does the word "love" mean to you?   

A lot can change in two years.

Cecile sat in the front row of her church, surrounded by her daughters.