North Texans help dedicate Africa University clinic
Africa
University Vice Chancellor Fanuel Tagwira (left), Bishop Alfred L.
Norris (center) and Bishop W. Earl Bledsoe cut the ribbon of the Alfred
L. Norris Health Center.
UMNS photos by the Rev. Joan LaBarr.
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By the Rev. Joan LaBarr*
July 24, 2009 | DALLAS (UMNS)
Africa University holds tenaciously to its mission of “transforming lives, transforming Africa.”
The center provides beds, treatment areas, a pharmacy, and counseling rooms, including a “laughter room” to aid
in stress management.
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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.”
Africa University students and faculty participate in the July 16 dedication ceremony.
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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
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