Appropriately, the celebration of an organization that has wholeheartedly responded to the medical needs of God's poor around the world since 1959 was held this year on Valentine's Day.

Hosted by the Mission Doctors Auxiliary at the Jonathan Club, 28 past and future doctors and their spouses called to serve in the missions by their faith attended the benefit gala. Equally important was the presence of those who made the life-saving work of the doctors possible - the steadfast supporters of MDA. Along with Msgr. Lawrence O'Leary, who gave the invocation, and Msgr. Michael Meyers (both former Mission Office directors), 165 people gathered together to honor five decades of "Hearts & Hope."

Mistress of Ceremonies Jennifer Fox started off the evening recalling the impact her parents' (Tom and Margaret Liautaud) 15-year commitment to supporting MDA had on her life. "We grew up with MDA, and the wonderful people we have met through the organization afforded us the opportunity to witness amazing acts of selfless devotion and tireless efforts that make a palatable difference in the world," she said.

Doctors preparing to make a difference in the near future mingled with their supporters. Dr. Tim Cavanaugh who has already served three years in Zimbabwe will be heading to Cameroon. Dr. Louis and Marty Coda were days away from their mission destination in Uganda, while Dr. Brent Burket and Dr. Jennifer Thoene --- who already have served long terms in Ghana --- have a year to prepare for their new assignment in Guatemala. Also slated for service in 2010 are Dr. Jim and Teri Hake, who will also be heading to Cameroon.

The Hakes, who have served in Cameroon and Zimbabwe, shared that for them the "missionary seed" had been planted years before they took steps toward actually serving. When Jim was asked why he would leave the comforts and safety, not to mention family and friends of home, he simply said, "Someone has to do it."

But he also acknowledged that his pervious short-term trips of medical practice in Africa meant more to him than the 30 years he practiced in the U.S. Teri added, "Serving in the missions takes him back to the roots of why he became a doctor in the first place - his pure and simple desire to heal people."

Both made it clear, however, that their mission service would not be possible were it not for the support of colleagues who took up the slack when they served short term, the hundreds of people who turned out for a Mass in support of their efforts, ongoing prayers and the financial support of committed donors. The Hakes agreed: "All can feel a part of this ministry."

All attending the golden anniversary gala seemed to feel that ministerial bond as they watched a video presentation spanning 50 years of sacrifice and healing. The evening ended with the closing of a silent auction. Proceeds from the benefit will go toward supporting future doctors who decide to answer the call to "heal the sick" through the Mission Doctors Association.

Information on becoming a Mission Doctor, auxiliary member or donor can be obtained at the MDA's website: www.missiondoctors.org