Search -
Franciscans and Health Care: Facing the Future
Franciscans and Health Care Facing the Future Author:Ilia Delio, Dominic Monti, Daniel Sulmasy, Beth Howe, Mary Hroscikoski, Esther Anderson, Peggy Egan, Patricia Simpson, Laureen Painter, Thomas Nairn, Kenneth Himes Care for the sick and suffering has been an integral part of the Franciscan tradition since the beginning of the conversion of St. Francis. St. Francis kissed the leper and discovered the sweetness of God hidden in the leper's disfigured flesh. Over the centuries, Franciscans have developed institutions of healthcare facilities, but today, the f... more »uture of these systems is in question. With decreasing numbers entering religious life, the shift from corporate to individual ministries, the complexities of healthcare regulations and HMO's, the question of how long these systems can prevail is critical.
In 1999, the Franciscan Center of the Washington Theological Union gathered experts to discuss the role of contemporary Franciscans in the ministry of healthcare. The talks were designed with a view both to spirituality and to maintaining Franciscan identity, especially in institutions administered by lay men and women. At a time when Franciscan institutions are facing critical decisions, it is worthwhile to remember the tradition that brought them to where they are, the values that make them what they are, and the spirituality that identifies who they are. The only way to predict the future is to create it. We believe the contributions made at this gathering on healthcare are a step in this direction.« less