Bishop Nelson Po formally blesses chapel at new Midland Private Hospital
A new chapel at St John of God Midland Private Hospital has been formally blessed by the Most Reverend Nelson Po, Auxiliary Bishop of Perth, designating it as a space for divine worship, prayer and reflection at the recently opened hospital.
St John of God Midland Private Hospital Director Mission Integration Karlee Guest, Bishop Nelson Po and St John of God Midland Private Hospital CEO Vanessa Unwin standing with the restored tabernacle
The blessing ceremony establishes the chapel as a sacred space within the hospital, offering comfort, connection and spiritual support to patients, families, and caregivers.
St John of God Midland Private Hospital Chief Executive Officer Vanessa Unwin said the hospital was much more than just a building and its chapel had been thoughtfully designed as a peaceful sanctuary, providing a sense of calm away from the clinical environment.
“Curved architectural elements, lightly coloured timber and filtered natural light create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, while sweeping architectural curves symbolise the belief that spirituality can be found in everyday moments and places,” Ms Unwin said.
The chapel also brings elements of St John of God Health Care’s history and heritage into the new hospital, with the altar and lectern relocated from the St John of God Mt Lawley Hospital site. The tabernacle, a fixed, sacred repository that houses the Eucharist, was also brought across from Mt Lawley Hospital and has been refurbished, now holding a prominent place in the chapel.
A large timber cross, illuminated with a warm golden glow, provides a welcoming focal point at the entrance of the St John of God Midland Private Hospital chapel
Bishop Nelson Po during the Midland Private Hospital chapel blessing Mass
St John of God Health Care Chief Mission Integration Officer Tara Peters said the chapel reflected the organisation's commitment to caring for the whole person, physically, emotionally and spiritually.
"When we think about health care, we naturally think about the clinical care people receive, but caring for someone during times of illness, recovery or uncertainty extends well beyond their physical needs," Mrs Peters said.
"The St John of God Midland Private Hospital chapel is a place where people can step away for a moment, whether they are seeking prayer, comfort, quiet reflection or simply somewhere to gather their thoughts.
"It is also a visible expression of our Catholic identity and our commitment to compassionate, person-centred care. While grounded in our Catholic tradition, it is a welcoming space for people of all faiths and backgrounds."
St John of God Midland Private Hospital opened to patients in August 2026, expanding access to private hospital services for people living in Perth's eastern suburbs and surrounding communities.
The standalone 123-bed private hospital includes eight operating theatres, a critical care unit, day surgery facilities, and interventional cardiology services including the region’s first cardiac catheter laboratory.
The chapel is available to patients, families, visitors and caregivers throughout their time at the hospital.
For more information about the new St John of God Midland Private Hospital visit www.sjog.org.au/newmidlandprivate