We are home after completing our time at a Christian mission hospital in Lubango, Angola. As we reflect on these past few weeks, we are grateful for the opportunity to contribute our skills, work alongside dedicated professionals, and experience the beauty and warmth of Angola.
Fenton and Pat at Tundavala Gap near Lubango.
Supporting Surgical Care
Dr. Pat working alongside the hospital’s surgical team.
Pat spent much of her time assisting with and performing a wide range of surgeries. In settings where specialists may not always be readily available, general surgeons must be prepared to address a wide range of medical needs.
The work included emergency procedures as well as surgeries intended to relieve pain, restore mobility, and improve a patient’s quality of life. Some cases offered the possibility of recovery; others focused on providing comfort and dignity during a very difficult season.
One particularly meaningful moment occurred with a patient facing advanced illness. As the patient waited for surgery, she quietly hummed the hymn “Trust and Obey.” It was a song that had also been on Pat’s mind before coming to Angola. Despite the language barrier, they shared a moment of peace and connection through music and faith.
Experiences like this are a reminder that medicine is never simply about a procedure. Behind every surgery is a person with a family, a story, and a need for both compassionate care and hope.
Strengthening Essential Systems
Fenton worked alongside the hospital’s maintenance team to address several practical infrastructure needs.
One immediate concern involved the hospital laundry. Replacement heating elements brought from home were installed in one of the large dryers, restoring an important piece of equipment before the rainy season. Further testing also identified a developing problem in the hospital’s second dryer, allowing the maintenance team to plan ahead before it failed completely.
Laundry may not sound like the most exciting part of healthcare, but clean linens and surgical materials are essential to safe hospital operations. Reliable equipment behind the scenes directly supports the care patients receive.
Fenton also reviewed portions of the hospital’s electrical infrastructure and identified opportunities to improve reliability as the hospital expands. The goal was not simply to solve today’s problems, but to help the team consider how to make critical systems safer and more resilient for the future.
Working Alongside Local Leaders
One of the most encouraging parts of the trip was seeing the commitment of the hospital’s doctors, nurses, trainees, maintenance staff, and other team members. They serve their community year-round, often carrying significant responsibility with limited resources.
Our role was temporary. The lasting work belongs to those who live there, lead the hospital, train future professionals, and care for patients every day. We were grateful to support their efforts and learn from them.
Experiencing Angola
The remarkable landscape and winding road at Serra da Leba.
Outside the hospital, we had a few opportunities to experience the landscape and community around Lubango.
Located on a high plateau, the area offers remarkable views. We visited the Serra da Leba overlook and, near the end of our stay, watched the sunset at Tundavala Gap. We also attended a rural church outside the city, where worship included responsive readings, several choirs, preaching, and translation into a local language.
These experiences gave us a broader picture of the region and reminded us of both the beauty of Angola and the importance of locally led churches, healthcare, and community development.
Looking Back with Gratitude
The hospital is in an important season of growth. Its expansion has the potential to increase access to quality medical care and strengthen its service to the surrounding region.
We leave grateful for everyone who welcomed us, worked beside us, and helped make our time in Angola productive. We are especially thankful for the long-term workers who continue serving after short-term volunteers like us return home.
Psalm 127:1 says, “Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain.” Buildings and equipment matter, but their purpose is to serve people. Our prayer is that the medical care, practical improvements, relationships, and encouragement shared during this trip will have a lasting impact.
Thank you for following our journey and supporting us through your prayers and encouragement.
With gratitude,
Fenton & Pat Rees