“I was sick and you took care of me.” – Matthew 25:36
The Medical Apostolate Meet was held on 27 August 2026 at Bethany Provincialate, Vamanjoor, on the theme “Consecrated Life and Holistic Medical Care.” The gathering brought together the Sisters involved in healthcare ministry for a meaningful reflection on their vocation to care for the sick and suffering. The vision of the meeting was “Encountering Christ in the Sick and Suffering.”
The programme began with an opening prayer led by Sr Clara Jyothi BS, followed by the roll call and welcome by Sr Juliana Gretta BS. Sr Veronica BS, the facilitator, guided the gathering throughout the session.
Sr Lilly Pereira BS, Provincial Superior, in her opening address, highlighted the importance of uniting professional competence with compassion in serving the sick and suffering.
The main session was led by Rev Dr Fr Archibald Gonsalves OCD. Sr Mable D’Mello BS introduced the resource person. Fr Archibald invited the Sisters to reflect on how a religious woman in healthcare can remain a consecrated woman, a competent professional and a compassionate presence of Christ. He reminded them that healthcare goes beyond treating illness and calls for empathy, dignity, understanding and loving presence.
The Sisters then engaged in a group discussion on caring for elderly Sisters in our communities. The discussion highlighted the importance of a supportive and loving environment, meaningful interaction, regular health check-ups, appropriate exercise, nutritious food, adequate rest and sleep, fall prevention and timely medical care. The need for suitable facilities for senior Sisters was also discussed.
The meeting renewed the understanding that the medical apostolate is a continuation of the compassionate mission of our Founder. For a religious nurse, healthcare is not merely a profession but a sacred ministry:
Every bed can become an altar.
Every patient can become a meeting place with Christ.
Every act of care can become a prayer.
The gathering concluded with an inspiring message from Sr. Mariola, Assistant Provincial Superior, who reminded the Sisters that whatever we do should be done from the heart and with love. Sr Lavita Dias BS proposed the vote of thanks, and Sr Renisha BS led the concluding prayer. The meeting concluded with an energising exercise, followed by tea and departure.
The Medical Apostolate Meet was a grace-filled reminder that healing is not only about restoring health, but also about bringing hope, dignity and the compassionate presence of Christ to those who suffer. It renewed the commitment of the Sisters to serve with skilled hands, compassionate hearts and a spirit of prayer.
