This week we have been celebrating the hospital's 70th anniversary. On Tuesday there was a special service held in the hospital chapel. Eudoxio asked me to say a few words. Following is my contribution for the occasion. Lucia translated for me as I spoke in English.

The memories I have of my great grandfather are of him in Washington, D. C., a good while after he had journeyed to Rio Verde, Brazil. One vivid memory I have is climbing up into his big, red chair and sitting on his lap while he read the bible to me. I remember accompanying him on walks in the park around his apartment. He walked with attentiveness and purpose; the way I imagine he also treated his journey to Rio Verde, as well as his journey with God and many others to found this hospital.

The dictionary defines journey as the “process from one stage to another, usually taking a rather long time.” The foundation and maintenance of this hospital has been a journey of 70 years until now, with the help of many Brazilian and American brothers and sisters; however, it is a journey that still continues. I think the most important thing in a journey is the message in our eyes. Our eyes express purpose and passion or the lack thereof. From the few memories I have and the pictures I’ve seen, my great grandfather’s eyes tell me the most. They sparkle with humility, gratitude, and joy.

Today let us celebrate! Let us also depart from this place with eyes that blaze with purpose and a passion for this hospital that honors my great grandfather, Dr. Gordon.

~Chapel at the Dr. Gordon Presbyterian Hospital, Rio Verde, Brazil, September 25, 2007

Saturday there will be a big lunch for all the hospital staff and their families. I am looking forward to mingling with people.