Mattru Back on Its Feet
Gary Dilley
January 2004
Almost 150 years ago, the United Brethren Church took its first
step toward spreading the gospel overseas by beginning work in
Sierra Leone, West Africa. Over the years, UB missionaries were
involved in evangelism and education, and established a strong
Christian hospital in Mattru. These missionaries have left their
legacy in this African nation.
A horrific civil war broke out over a decade ago, and our missionaries
had to return to North America. As the rebels rolled through Mattru,
the hospital was overrun and became the local headquarters for
the rebel force.
Since the ceasefire four years ago, the hospital has literally
risen out of the ashes. Doctors Without Borders opened the hospital
again, and then handed it to the Sierra Leone UB Conference. Through
their hospital board and some strong support from North American
individuals, great progress has been made. The staff has been downsized
to fit the medical ministry and assist the hospital to become more
self-sufficient.
Through the diligence of former missionaries such as Tim and
Jan Swinton, a foundation in Philadelphia gave funds to establish
a nursing school that began last fall. As a result, not only are
nurses being trained for Sierra Leone, but it brings in revenue
for the hospital. Also, the Sierra Leone Conference assigned two
chaplains to the hospital. They are bringing a strong evangelistic
presence to the work and into local villages.
Donations to assist the hospital through this transition time
can be made to Global Ministries designated for Mattru Hospital.
You can also read an article by Abigail Reese which highlights
the return of Dr. Dan Metzger, a former UB missionary, to Mattru
Hospital, where he did short-term medical work through Operation
Mobilization's Mercy Ships.