SOROTI — Health workers at Soroti Regional Referral Hospital have been called upon to embrace their professional responsibilities with compassion and dedication, following a pastoral visit by the Bishop of Soroti Catholic Diocese.
Rt. Rev. Dr. Joseph Eciru Oliach made the call during his visit to the hospital, where he was accompanied by priests, religious sisters, and members of the Catholic community. The visit included prayers and the administration of healing sacraments to patients.
In his homily, Bishop Eciru urged medical workers to remain spiritually grounded and to view their service as more than just a job.
“Stay close to God and recognize the face of the suffering Christ in the patients you serve,” he said. “Your work is not only a professional duty but also a healing ministry.”
He explained that the pastoral visit was intended to offer hope, encouragement, and spiritual support to patients, reminding them that God remains present even in times of suffering.
During the visit, the bishop administered the sacraments of Reconciliation and Anointing of the Sick, encouraging patients to remain strong in faith despite their health challenges.
Hospital leadership welcomed the visit, describing it as uplifting for both patients and staff.
Speaking on behalf of the hospital director, Dr. Joseph Epodoi, the Head of Surgery praised the bishop’s initiative, noting that it brought comfort and renewed hope to patients.
“This visit has encouraged the sick and reminded us as health workers of our spiritual responsibility as we care for patients,” he said.
Rev. Fr. Jorem Agelu, the hospital chaplain, also noted that the prayers and interaction with the bishop had reinvigorated staff and strengthened their commitment to serving the community.
The pastoral visit highlighted the role of spiritual care in healthcare, reinforcing the importance of compassion, faith, and holistic healing in medical practice.
