On August 6, the Church celebrates the Feast of the Transfiguration—that mysterious and radiant moment when Jesus took Peter, James, and John up a high mountain and revealed His divine glory. His face shone like the sun. His clothes became dazzling white. And from a cloud came the voice of the Father: “This is my beloved Son… listen to Him.” (Matthew 17:5)
It’s a dramatic scene. But it’s not just about glory. It’s also about preparation.
Jesus gave the disciples a glimpse of His divinity not to lift them out of the world, but to strengthen them for what was coming—the cross, the confusion, the call to serve and suffer for love.
In many ways, this is also the rhythm of the missionary journey.
Mission Work: A Mountain and a Valley
Every Catholic healthcare professional who serves with Mission Doctors has had their own “mountaintop” moment—some clear, profound encounter with God’s call to serve. It may have come in the quiet of prayer, a conversation with a mentor, or even in the middle of medical training. A moment when the heart burns with purpose.
But then comes the valley.
Long days at rural hospitals. Limited resources. The challenge of treating patients with illnesses long unseen in the U.S. The ache of watching suffering you can’t immediately fix. And yet, over and over again, those serving with MDA say the same thing:
“I saw Christ in my patients.”
“I learned more from them than I could ever teach.”
“Their faith, deepened mine.”
The Transfiguration reminds us that we don’t serve alone. We serve in the light of the One who was transfigured—and who walks with us through every joy and every challenge.
For Our Donors: You Share in This Light
You may not be climbing into a truck on the red, dirt roads in Tanzania or preparing a admitting a patient for care in the Amazon of Peru. But when you give to Mission Doctors Association, you are there.
Your generosity helps prepare and send faithful Catholic healthcare professionals to places where they are desperately needed. Your support makes it possible for them to be present—to listen, to heal, to love in Christ’s name.
You are part of their mission. And your kindness is part of their Transfiguration—strengthening them with the light of Christ to carry on, even in the valley.
As we celebrate this feast, may we all take a moment to reflect:
- Where have we glimpsed God’s glory?
- Where are we being asked to listen, to follow, to serve?
- How can we bring Christ’s light to others?
Thank you for making this work possible. You are helping transform the world—one act of love at a time.