Homily for the White Mass : October 18, 2007

Given by the Most Reverend Stephen E. Blaire at the Cathedral of the Annunciation in Stockton.

On the feast of St. Luke the Church in the celebration of the White Mass honors physicians, nurses and health care workers with great respect and appreciation. Through their good work they promote the dignity and care of the human person. In my recent surgery I was so impressed with the competence, the kindness, the professional attention and care which I received from the physicians, the nurses and the other health care staff. Their work is truly rooted in the ministry of Jesus, whether they know it or not. “Everyone in the crowd sought to touch Him because power came forth from Him and healed them all.” Lk 6:19 For the believer, caring for the sick and healing them is a response to the gospel.

The Church through her health care institutions has had long experience and appreciates the complexity of the health issues we face in society. She offers principals in light of the gospel which speak to our consciences. First of all, we must find a way for affordable and accessible health care for all. Health care is not only an essential safeguard of human life but it is a fundamental human right. The fact that over 47 million Americans lack health care coverage, make it a national priority. Secondly, the reform of our health care system needs to be rooted in values which respect human dignity, protect human life, meet the needs of the poor and uninsured, especially children (born and unborn), pregnant women, immigrants and other vulnerable populations. Thirdly, religious groups should be able to provide health care services without having to compromise their religious convictions. Religious liberty of our institutions must be protected. It is being attacked under the guise of not discriminating against women and the poor.

When the Samaritan approached the man who had been beaten and left half dead, he poured oil and wine over his wounds and bandaged them. He then brought him to the inn and took car of him. He was neighbor to this man. Our physicians, our nurses, our health care workers are neighbor to us, and tonight we acknowledge them and thank them.

Last Update October 18, 2007