On Oct. 26, the diocese recognized healthcare professionals at the annual White Mass, celebrated this year by Monsignor Gerard Lopez, Vicar General, at St. Joseph the Worker Parish in Loma Linda.
In his homily, Msgr. Lopez expressed deep gratitude to all the men and women in healthcare professions. The priests provided a special blessing over the health workers present and affirmed the importance of their services.
After the Mass, five professionals were honored with distinguished awards.
The St. Luke Award was presented to Dr. Susan Protacio, MD. The St. Luke Award is awarded to a physician who promotes the culture of life, value and respect for the dignity of the human person and compliance with the moral ethos embodied in the Hippocratic Oath.
The Florence Nightingale Award was presented to Kathy Benjamin, RN. The Florence Nightingale Award is awarded to a licensed nurse who had distinguished themself in the field of nursing in a way that reflects Catholic values and moral ethics. This award recognizes an individual with a passion for nursing, clinical excellence, service to the community, respect for patients and families, and teamwork with other healthcare providers.
The St. Damien of Molokai Award was presented to Father Miguel Urrea. This award is given to a hospital chaplain who has distinguished himself in providing compassionate and dedicated spiritual care to the sick and dying.
The St. Teresa of Calcutta Award was presented to Marissa de la Cruz. This award is given to a non-healthcare professional who provides healthcare services to the poor, the homeless, and disadvantaged through Corporal Works of Mercy, compassion and charity.
The Bishop’s Award was presented to Dr. Thomas Darkor, PhD. This award is given to a healthcare professional (other than a doctor or nurse) who promotes projects or programs in preventive healthcare which fulfills the mission of the diocese “so that lives are filled with hope.”