The second “C” in Christian Connections for International Health is sometimes confusing. For example, Raymond Martin was referred to in a recent presentation as the executive director of Christian Concoctions for International Health.

Concoctions aside, I believe that the connections component of CCIH has at least three important meanings:

First, connections means promoting networking among Christians and Christian agencies working in International Health. This networking also includes connecting people to field-oriented resources, especially those from a Christian perspective. It also means connecting Christians and Churches with the larger professional and secular world of governments and global development agencies.

Second, connections means helping people, especially in underserved areas, to get connected to information and services that can improve their own physical, mental, spiritual and social well being. 

Third, connections means being creative. William Plomer said it best, “Creativity is the power to connect the seemingly unconnected.” This power to connect can inspire new ways to improve health services.

It is said that Gutenberg invented the printing press when he made a creative connection between pressing grapes in a winepress and pressing words in a printing press.

In truth, Gutenberg borrowed and connected several technologies to create his printing press. However, as Thomas Edison once said, “Keep on the lookout for novel ideas that others have used successfully. Your idea has to be original only in its adaptation to the problem you're working on.”

Opportunities to connect are all around us. Get connected to CCIH, and let us know how we can help you get connected to others