Dr. Justin Peterson, an OB/GYN at CRH Women’s Center, recently returned from his fifth mission trip to Patate, Ecuador—a region close to his heart. Accompanied by his wife, Meredith, and their two young sons, Dr. Peterson joined members of Carver Baptist Church and others from across the state to serve the community at Camp Chacauco.
During the mission, the team hosted Vacation Bible School for nearly 100 local children, sharing the gospel and creating lasting memories. Their time was also spent improving the grounds of the camp — building a new playground and continuing work on a church structure that has been years in the making.
In addition to their service, the group took time to explore the natural beauty of Ecuador, visiting scenic waterfalls and mountain overlooks that showcased the region’s stunning landscape.
Dr. Peterson has been involved in mission work throughout his adult life, with trips spanning the globe — from China, Kazakhstan, and Peru to Nassau and across the eastern United States. While in college, he served as the mission’s coordinator for both the Wesley Foundation and Baptist Collegiate Ministries, teaching English, building churches, and repairing homes. Following his medical training, his work expanded to include educating foreign physicians and helping them establish clinics in their home countries.
“I’ve always believed that our skills — whether in medicine or ministry — are gifts meant to be shared,” said Dr. Peterson. “Serving in Ecuador alongside my family and our church was a reminder that hope, faith, and compassion truly speak a universal language.”
“We are grateful to have physicians like Dr. Peterson who not only share their talents across the globe but also bring that same compassion and dedication home to serve the people of Coffee County,” said Vicki Lewis, President and CEO of Coffee Regional Medical Center. “His heart for service and commitment to others is a true reflection of the values we hold dear at Coffee Regional.”
Dr. Peterson and his wife Meredith, who will be teaching high school science at Citizens Christian Academy this fall, are raising their two sons in Coffee County. Their family’s commitment to service reflects their deep-rooted faith and heart for others — both locally and globally.