By the Rev. Joan LaBarr*
July 24, 2009 | DALLAS (UMNS)

Africa University holds tenaciously to its mission of “transforming lives, transforming Africa.”

On July 16, a key part of the dream for the United Methodist-related institution came true with the dedication of a new health clinic built with a $500,000 contribution from the churches of the North Texas Annual (regional) Conference.

The conference also raised another $500,000 to endow health science scholarships that will equip young people to fill the need for public health workers and nurses throughout the African continent.

Bishop W. Earl Bledsoe led a delegation of 30 clergy and laity from the conference who joined 250 Africa University leaders, faculty, students and government officials for a day of ceremony, celebration and dedication in Mutare, Zimbabwe.

The drive to raise the funds for the medical clinic and scholarships came as a response to a challenge from former North Texas Conference Bishop Alfred L. Norris, who was assigned to the conference in 2006 to fill the unexpired term of the late Bishop Rhymes H. Moncure Jr.

One of the most touching moments of the service came with the announcement that the health clinic would be named for Norris, a former chair of the Africa University Development Committee, and that the scholarships would bear the name of Moncure, a longtime supporter of the university. Moncure’s wife and daughter, Jewell and Roxanne Moncure, were special guests.

In response to the surprise announcement that the health clinic would be named in his honor, Norris said he was “deeply appreciative. I didn’t expect this. It is a testament to the character of the annual conference that they were doing this out of love for the people and respect for their bishop at that time. In that sense, I accept the honor with humility, and pride as well.”

Fanuel Tagwira, Africa University’s vice chancellor, also voiced appreciation that the North Texans chose to invest significant resources at a time when many are avoiding involvement with Zimbabwe.

“At a time when few believed it was possible to build in Zimbabwe, you saw possibility where others saw impossibility. You chose to invest where others were running away from involvement. You took risks, and we thank you very much,” he said, adding, “This is an emotional moment for me. This seed you planted, we will water and nurture it to help the people of Africa.”

The clinic has two wings and 20 rooms, including two seven-bed observation wards. Also included are a reception area and records center, pharmacy, consultation rooms, counseling rooms and a “laughter room” for stress management and diversion therapy. There is also a youth-friendly space for health-related education and activities.

“You are children of God, important in the scheme of things,” Norris said in his speech at the dedication. “God says I want the best for you, and I am saying, God cannot be disappointed.”

*LaBarr is the director of communications for the North Texas Annual Conference.

News media contact: Linda Green, (615) 742-5470 or newsdesk@umcom.org.

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Resources

Africa University

Africa University Development Office

Africa University Fund

North Texas Annual Conference