Missionaries Jim and Kathy Radcliffe were greeted by an estimated 800 local residents upon their return from home assignment in the U.S.

Jim, who is the chief surgeon at Kudjip Nazarene Hospital, began experiencing heart problems last summer. In June, the family traveled to the U.S., where it was discovered that Jim had a defective heart valve and an enlarged aorta that required open heart surgery. During pre-surgery tests, a tumor was found on his adrenal gland.

PNG residents responded with an outpouring of support through prayer and finances after hearing about Jim's medical problems, including paying for all expenses not covered by insurance.

The news of his successful heart surgery, the report that the adrenal tumor was benign, and the news that he would return to PNG brought great rejoicing to the area, but the biggest celebration was reserved for December 31 as the Radcliffes returned to Kudjip Nazarene Hospital.

The rural road leading to the hospital was lined with well-wishers. Others joined in and made an impromptu parade of vehicles. Earlier in the day, residents borrowed the local road grader to even out the normally challenging road.

Although tired from the long trip, the Radcliffes spent time greeting those who had prayed for them and sacrificed on their behalf.

The Radcliffes began serving as missionaries to Kudjip Nazarene Hospital in 1985.

Kudjip Nazarene Hospital, founded in 1967, has nearly 200 staff members in addition to seven missionary doctors and other missionaries. The hospital on average sees more than 52,000 outpatients each year and completes more than 600 major surgeries per year, not including the many cesarean sections.
--Church of the Nazarene Asia-Pacific Region