Anchor Church Partner

Gethsemane Temple African Methodist Episcopal Church

Baltimore, Maryland

"The value of our society is often measured by its validation and recognition of the importance of women in our society. As Christians we understand the pivotal role that women have in shaping our congregation and communities.  The 'issues' associated with VVF can bring shame, humiliation, and relentless public and private pain for women and their families. Our Church stands with these women to integrate them back into their and communities to be the assets God created them to be." -- Rev. K. Andre Brooks

Church Sponsorship With Mercy Ships:

Gethsemane will focus on fostering self-worth, self- sufficiency and healing of women challenged with vesicovaginal fistula so their communities will be more full-filled and productive. Our women’s ministry and missionary society will serve as mentors and advocates for the Gethsemane’s plans to support the ongoing efforts of Mercy Ships by partnering with local universities, hospitals, and women centered civic organizations/sororities to raise awareness and support for our strategies.

We will continue to facilitate city-wide fundraisers, seek corporate sponsorship, and engage in community outreach and donations from the congregation.

"As a registered nurse, I immediately recognized the need for greater public awareness of Mercy Ships. After deeper investigation of the history and mission of Mercy Ships it became obvious that VVF would be the center of our focus. Since the problems of VVF are not as visible like cleft-lip, blindness, and facial tumors/deformities, it can be easily overlooked. However, inattention to this medical problem that has a simple antidote has a catastrophic effect on the women, their children, and the entire community. With the help of Mercy Ships, we will combat VVF around the globe!" -- Sheree Carter Chase, RN, MSN/MBA