Hazaribag: A day dedicated to prayer, reflection, and gratitude brought together Catholic doctors, nurses, paramedical staff, community health workers, and healthcare professionals of the Hazaribag Catholic Diocese at Jan Vikas Kendra, within the Bishop’s House campus, as part of the Jubilee Year of Pilgrims of Hope. The programme, organized by the diocesan Health Commission, aimed to honour the healing ministry of healthcare workers and renew their dedication to compassionate service.
The celebration was led by Bishop Anand Jojo of Hazaribag, accompanied by Fr. Tomy, Director of the Diocesan Health Ministry; Fr. Santosh Topno, in charge of the Herbal Health Care Centre; and Sr. Remya John, CHF, Health Coordinator of the diocese. In his inaugural address, Bishop Jojo reflected on the spiritual significance of the Jubilee Year, urging participants to walk with the risen Lord despite life’s challenges and to continue serving the sick with love, empathy, and dedication. He expressed heartfelt gratitude for their tireless efforts in caring for the people of the diocese.
The day featured sessions that highlighted various aspects of holistic healthcare. Sr. Nirmala, Director of CHABIJAN, emphasized the rising importance of mental health care within families, society, and the Church, advocating for the extension of such services to parishes and villages. Fr. George, Regional Coordinator of the Mental Health Ministry, addressed strategies for promoting mental well-being across all age groups.
Mr. Nilesh, Regional Programme Officer of CHAI, introduced participants to tele-health and community care applications, underscoring the role of technology in expanding healthcare reach. Meanwhile, Dr. Sr. Laisa H.C. of Holy Cross Hospital, Tarwa, focused on stress management and emotional stability, encouraging healthcare workers to balance personal well-being alongside their professional responsibilities.
The Jubilee Day concluded with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, presided over by Bishop Anand Jojo and concelebrated by Fr. Tomy, Fr. Prabal, and Fr. Santosh. In his homily, Bishop Jojo lauded healthcare workers as distinctive builders of the Body of Christ, quoting Pope Leo XIV in describing their presence as “a tangible sign of the merciful love of Christ.”
He encouraged all present to emulate the Good Samaritan, showing tenderness, compassion, and unwavering commitment in caring for the wounded and suffering. The Bishop called on participants to view their daily service as a sacred vocation, integrating spiritual dedication with professional care, thereby reflecting Christ’s mercy in every act of healing.
The event served not only as a celebration of service but also as a spiritual renewal, inspiring healthcare professionals to continue their ministry with compassion, resilience, and hope in the Jubilee Year and beyond.