About 30 years ago, as the Rev. Charles Barry Wood was leaving his physician's office, he was asked if his church (Epworth United Methodist Church in Worcester, MA) would consider housing a free medical program for the uninsured.
Epworth United Methodist Church is a part of the New England Annual Conference.
Without hesitating, he said yes.
During the following three months, a committee of church members was formed, the church membership was consulted, and the legal concerns were addressed.
Rev. Charles Barry WoodRev. Wood informed local churches about the program, location, and hours of operation. Local medical providers donated three examination tables and some basic supplies.
All patients were seen without questioning their income status, and no one was questioned about their insurance status or how long they had been in the country. The only information collected, apart from their name, was a means of contacting someone in case follow-up was needed.
On the first night, church volunteers set up the fellowship hall and waited for patients to appear. Of course, Rev. Wood was there, even though it was his day off.
At first, there were only a few patients, but as the word spread, the numbers increased until 40 to 50 patients were seen each night.
The medical students from the University of MA Medical School came to assist the volunteer physicians from the community. Local chiropractors, optometrists, audiologists, and volunteer pharmacists volunteered to help. The city of Worcester sent a volunteer to do free and confidential HIV testing. Volunteer social workers helped patients apply for MassHealth insurance.
Week after week, the amazing church members came to set up, greet, register patients, and provide security. (They also brought the most wonderful baked goods.) Of course, Rev. Wood was there to help with any issues that arose. (Always on his day off.)
After several years, other programs opened in Worcester, and today, there are 5 active medical programs for those without insurance. Read more about what is now Worcester Free Care.
The program is still operating after 26 years. Hundreds of thousands of patients have been helped because an amazing pastor said yes, and his church membership opened their arms and hearts to help those in need.
Rev. Wood has retired, but his life-saving work goes on.
Thank you, Rev. Barry Wood and the Epworth United Methodist Church, for demonstrating what one minister and one church can accomplish.
Story by Paul Hart, MD, was Rev. Wood’s physician and is the founder of the Worcester Evening Free Medical Service Program, Inc. and Worcester Free Eye Care Program. He served as director from 1993 to 2010.
This story represents how United Methodist local churches through their Annual Conferences are living as Vital Congregations. A vital congregation is the body of Christ making and engaging disciples for the transformation of the world. Vital congregations are shaped by and witnessed through four focus areas: calling and shaping principled Christian leaders; creating and sustaining new places for new people; ministries with poor people and communities; and abundant health for all.
