Welcome to Mission Doctors Association

Founded in 1959 by
Msgr. Anthony Brouwers

Honoring the 50th anniversary of Mission Doctors, we have produced a book that spans the five decades with photos and in the words of those who have served.

Additional copies of “Called to Heal, Compelled to Help” are still available. Contact our office to receive a copy.

Msgr. Anthony Brouwers quote “To the famed Hypocratic Oath..."

History of Mission Doctors Association

Msgr. Brouwers visited Africa for the Marian Conference in 1955 and remained to meet the local bishops and to learn how the people of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles could be of help. He found bishops asking for trained individuals willing and able to take a role of leadership and training in schools and hospitals throughout the continent. Responding to this need Msgr. Brouwers founded the Lay Mission-Helpers Association in 1955, and the Mission Doctors Association in 1959.

As the first organized groups in the United States, calling the laity to serve in the missions, there have been more than 700 lay missionaries who have served in 35 countries around the world, who have given more than 2000 years of service to the church. The unique contribution made by LMH and MDA lay missionaries are recognized internationally as people who come to share their gifts and live their faith.

In 1997 Mission Doctors Association, responding to the needs o

f many professionals, and hospitals where MDA had personnel serving, began the short-term program. Doctors are invited to attend a Retreat / Seminar prior to accepting an assignment to a mission hospital or clinic. These short-term assignments are one - three months in duration.

A book on the life of founder, Msgr. Brouwers is available. To read a review of this book, published in a recent issue of The Tidings newspaper click h ere.