Celebrating 800 Years of Compassion and Care: Pope Francis’ Message to Medical Professionals

The University of Naples Federico II recently marked its 800th anniversary, and Pope Francis took the opportunity to address a group of dentists from the university, urging them to uphold compassion, ethics, and care in their practice.

Founded as the world’s first state-sponsored university, Pope Francis commended the institution for its commitment to promoting universal knowledge and serving the common good.

Addressing the medical community, the Pope emphasized the timeless importance of the motto Primum non nocere, secundum cavere, tertium sanare— first, do no harm; second, take care; third, heal.

First, Do No Harm

Pope Francis stressed the significance of the first principle, emphasizing the need for doctors to acknowledge and alleviate the pain and suffering of their patients without causing further harm.

Reflecting on his own experience of receiving care, the Pope highlighted the impact of human tenderness in healing, urging medical professionals to approach their patients with compassion and empathy.

Take Care

Continuing his message, Pope Francis encouraged medical professionals to embody God’s compassion and tenderness in their practice, caring for the whole person—body, mind, and spirit.

Heal

Lastly, the Pope called on doctors to emulate Christ’s healing ministry, viewing their work as a sacred act of bringing relief and comfort to those in need. He emphasized the importance of finding joy in the good they bring to their patients and expressed gratitude for their dedication and perseverance.

In conclusion, Pope Francis reminded medical professionals of their role as educators and healers, urging them to always care and accompany their patients with compassion till the end.

Let us all be inspired by Pope Francis’ words and strive to uphold compassion, ethics, and care in all aspects of our lives.

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