In Peña Blanca, Honduras, Samaritan’s Purse World Medical Corps organized a week-long dental outreach. Every morning, a long line of patients formed outside the sun-shaded walls of the Sal Luz Dental Clinic.
As temperatures climbed daily toward 30 degrees Celsius, the clinic was alive with family conversations, children’s laughter, and calls from volunteers.
Inside, the hum of drills and suction machines filled the air as dentists carefully explained each procedure, ensuring patients felt heard and respected. Many patients were seeking their overdue cleanings, fillings, and extractions.
The World Medical Corps, comprised of volunteer dentists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants, partnered with the Sal Luz Dental Clinic and local Honduran dental professionals to provide care to over 300 patients who otherwise would not have access to quality dental services.
A spiritual care team of local and American pastors also participated, encouraging patients and sharing the gospel.
The mission also set up a mobile clinic in the nearby, resource-starved town of San Francisco de Yojoa, providing affordable dental services to underserved communities.
One patient, Glenda, had been putting off treatment due to high costs, a busy work schedule, and caring for her ailing mother.
When she heard about a nearby dental event, she felt the timing was perfect—a direct answer to her prayers.
Glenda was initially nervous, but after leaving the clinic, she felt relieved, her pain gone, and expressed heartfelt gratitude. “I’m so happy to be here,” she said. “Thank you for your support.”
Dental hygienist Avery Mays said she joined the mission out of her passion for patient care and especially enjoys teaching children about oral health.
Using a handheld model, she demonstrated brushing and flossing techniques, explaining, “I also point to Jesus and clearly show that He is the reason we are here.”
Each team member expressed their shared purpose in the community: “Jesus loves them, so He brought us to their small community.”
Volunteer couple Peter and Raquel Rodriguez lead the spiritual care team, encouraging local pastors to clearly share the gospel and supporting believers in their faith journey.
Pastor Peter, from Denver, Colorado, reflected on his work: “A big part of our job is listening—being the person people long to talk to, hearing their pain and struggles, and guiding them to the light, to Jesus, the Light of the World.”
He emphasized that sharing the gospel is an expression of love, echoing Paul’s desire to spread God’s Word as quickly as possible.
This team of church leaders, community members, and other volunteers worked tirelessly to care for the sick in the scorching summer heat.
Daniel Tercero, Executive Director of Sal y Luz, was delighted to see believers using their talents to advance God’s Kingdom. “God has gifted each of us with different gifts and talents, and it’s wonderful to see us all working together so harmoniously,” he said.
This seamless care reassures patients like Yolanda, who brought her son, Emilio, to the clinic. She is grateful for the dental care she longed for and especially delighted to see her son smile throughout his treatment.
“It is here that God has guided us to receive excellent dental care and strengthened our faith,” Yolanda said. “I just want to express my gratitude. I’m grateful to Samaritan’s Purse. I’m grateful to God for bringing us here. I’m overjoyed. God has made me a joyful person.”
