IN THE DISCIPLESHIP FOR CHRIST.

The CMG has historically produced a hand full of doctors who have made contributions to Society that have not quite been publicly recognized as coming directly under the CMG banner. eg: NFP under NFP Singapore, PCS and COL under FLS, Talks on Marian themes – personal contributions. Some contributions made recently, however, eg. In Bioethics and Medico legal issues, missionary outreach, pro-life education - have evolved and remained directly under the CMG. Hence, CMG’s contribution to the Christian mission has been the development of a Christian medico with a conscience, passion, and desire for certain types of work in the discipleship for Christ.

In these days, many medico-ethical and bio-ethical issues are emerging as a consequence of rapidly advancing medical sciences and technologies. There is a need to increase public information /education on these issues. Being publicly vocal on these matters would generate the awareness of the CMG as an authority on these matters, one to be consulted and respected. Medical relief missions are important too, but not unique to the group. The CMG needs to develop a solid membership base, with active and vibrant participants, and not just an inactive name list. The concept of membership in the CMG needs to be re-looked. researched, and changed. What does it mean, really, to be a member of the CMG?

Would it be possible that in 10 years time, The CMG will be a Catholic organization that is respected and consulted by other Christian groups and government bodies on matters related to bio-ethical and medico- legal issues?  Can the CMG be a fore front player in Medical missions to populations in need? A Reference Point? An organization every catholic doctor would look forward to becoming a part of, and the envy of other medial groups?
To achieve this end, the CMG’s image needs to be popularized. Member’s perceptions changed. There’s a need to awaken and develop members’ interests (and draw in new members) in the work, the importance and potential of the group. This would require a paradigm shift in perceptions, a renewal of commitment in prioritizing time and work for the Christian mission. Contributions that the CMG member makes should not be assigned to past-time work, a side–line, a ‘hobby’ or “something I do when I find the time!” It has to have in all seriousness high priority, passion, commitment, dedication, plenty of self-sacrifice,and moving out of one’s comfort zone.
As Catholic doctors we have a special mission – that of following in the footsteps of the Divine Healer.
Can members of the CMG rise up to these challenges? Can we bring forth to reality the experience of the Divine Physician who says,
“ I have come so that they may have life and have it to the full”?