Mrs Margaret A. IGE

Catholic Nurses Guild of Nigeria is at it again, "World day of the Sick" 2026.

This year's theme: "BE A GOOD SAMARITAN, BEAR THE PAIN OF OTHERS".

The association cares so much for the sick as her logo points out, "We nurse, unto Christ".

On Wednesday 11th of February, Catholic Nurses of Ibadan Archdiocese paid a visit to St Dominic Catholic Hospital, Ogungbade, where she briefly met with the administrative body, then proceeded to pray for the sick {young and adult} and distributed necessary items/commodities to them. The association also gave cash gift to some individuals with financial challenges.

Also in their works of dedications, some Catholic Nurses of Ibadan Archdiocese, celebrated Mass at St Luke's Chaplaincy UCH, Ibadan, along with some other medical team, to celebrate the day. Rev. Fr. Stephen Balogun, CNGN, Ibadan Archdiocesan Chaplain who doubled as Ibadan Provincial Chaplain was the Chief Celebrant.

UCH Chaplain, Rev. Fr. Felix Akinyode welcomed everyone, especially, to the special occasion of the World Day of the Sick.

In his homily, he said “every 11th of February we celebrate the sick, seeking the intercession of Our Lady of Lourdes, who appeared to St Bernadette in 1858 in the city of Lourdes where streams of water flow till today to heal with countless testimonies recorded.”

He said that the jar of water in our nation is empty and encouraged everyone to cry out like mother Mary that "there is no more wine" as in today's gospel and we all, as health workers, should thank God for the grace of good health. He said we have been commissioned to be light of the world and salt of the earth.

Also, that our country does not give concern to the sick by giving room for strike actions and that as Catholic Nurses we should let the world know that things are not as they should be.

He further encouraged that whenever we come together we must begin to find a way in creating a new change, light in the midst of darkness.

Rev. Fr. Balogun appreciated Rev. Fr. Akinyode for his efforts as the Chaplain in hospital setting is a great task, and appreciated everyone for making it a day.

In her address, the National President encouraged NAC, NEC and Nurses in Nigeria, to reflect on the sacred responsibility entrusted to them as Catholic nurses. A vocation that goes beyond clinical care; a ministry of compassion, dignity, and hope.

She further said that in serving the sick and vulnerable, nurses become instruments of Christ the Divine Healer, offering not only professional excellence but also faith filled presence and comfort, that this special day calls for renewal of dedications to holistic care, caring for the body, mind, and spirit.

She prayed that this observance strengthens the leadership of the NAC and NEC and inspires every member of the Guild nationwide to continue serving with integrity, unity, and love.

In her message, she pleaded to all Nurses to find time to check their vitals and also care for themselves.

She prayed that our Lady of Lourdes intercedes for all and God to bless Catholic Nurses Guild of Nigeria.

 

We Nurse, Unto Christ.