Zorko: Most Reverend Alfred Agyenta, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Navrongo-Bolgatanga, has called on health workers to serve patients with passion, love, and compassion to facilitate quicker healing and recovery. The Bishop made the call during a ceremony organised by the Catholic Health Trust of the Navrongo-Bolgatanga Catholic Diocesan Development Organisation (NABOCADO) to climax the weeklong celebration of the World Day of the Sick, held at Zorko in the Bongo District of the Upper East Region.
According to Ghana News Agency, the World Day of the Sick was established by Pope John Paul II in 1992 and has since been observed globally each year to offer prayers for the sick and recognise efforts of those who care for them. This year's celebration was held on the theme: 'Hope does not disappoint but strengthens us in the times of trial' (Romans 5:3).
Addressing a gathering of health professionals, clergy, and community members, The Most Reverend Agyenta emphasised that healthcare delivery went beyond application of medical skills to having a deep sense of humanity and empathy. 'As health workers, we need to be compassionate; we need to bring hope to the people we serve. We shouldn't double the pain of the people we serve,' he stressed.
The Bishop acknowledged the sacrifices made by health professionals, especially in underserved areas, and encouraged them to continue their work with dedication despite the challenges and poor working conditions. 'You are working under difficult conditions, and sometimes you have to use your own time and resources to carry out your work because most of our health facilities are located in rural areas. That is why we need to be sensitive, and that is why I appreciate you for all the sacrifices you make,' he said.
The Most Reverend Agyenta also commended relevant stakeholders, particularly traditional leaders and community members, for their support to the Church and its health facilities in caring for the sick. Mr Peter Ayamba, Director of the Catholic Health Trust, NABOCADO, said the leadership of the Catholic Church had consistently called for the protection and care of the vulnerable and the sick, and that healthcare providers were committed to delivering on that call.
He urged health workers to be inspired by the life of Jesus Christ in serving with humility and compassion to ensure that people felt encouraged to visit health facilities for care. Dr Joseph Bangu, Executive Director of NABOCADO, urged health workers to be professional and ethical in the discharge of their duties to ensure that service provision fulfilled the commandment of God.
Mr James Adjei, the Upper East Regional Health Promotion Officer of the Ghana Health Service, commended health workers for their commitment to providing quality health services and urged the government to prioritise their welfare for improved service delivery. Naba Victor Adendaa Awanyelom II, Chief of Zorko-Kodorogo, commended the Catholic Church for its contribution to community development, particularly in the areas of education and health. He reiterated the community's commitment to working with the Church and government to advance development.
During the occasion, the Most Reverend Agyenta presided over a Mass to pray for the sick, health workers, and caregivers, and asked for divine strength and wisdom for all those who serve in the health sector.
