How does the Catholic tradition of Advent link to our health care?

1 Dec 2017

Advent starts on the first Sunday in December and ends on 24 December, the day before Christmas when Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus. Advent is a season of expectant waiting and preparation for the celebration of the Nativity of Jesus at Christmas. The Latin version of the word means “coming”.

Martin Loney - St John of God Health Care Group Services Director of Mission Integration

“The Vision of St John of God Health Care and Advent are forever linked. Our Vision speaks of giving each other and those in our care a “reason to hope”. Its words hark back to Bethlehem and a guiding star illuminating the promise of a new beginning.

The season of Advent marks a time full of hope as we await the birth of the child whose coming amongst us brought a new age for all mankind.

Hope, personified in the manger child, continues to unfold as we enliven his Mission in this time, proclaiming the healing touch of God’s unconditional love through our work.”

Phil Bretherton - St John of God Bendigo Hospital Director of Mission Integration

“Advent is the season of waiting and reflection.

Perhaps more so than many in the community, those in our care often have time to ponder all the challenges that life can bring.

Our capacity as caregivers to bring hope, to listen, to be present and to activate wellbeing is critical if we are indeed to play our part in human flourishing.”

Jennifer Healey - St John of God Subiaco Hospital Director of Mission Integration

“The season of Advent has a focus on the themes of hope and longing, preparation and waiting. The people were longing for the birth of Jesus whose message was love.

When illness touches our lives we experience the hope and longing for good health and much energy is spent in preparation and waiting.

As we prepare for the celebration at Christmas we too can bring a message of hope and love to those we encounter as patient, family, visitor, volunteer or caregiver.”