By Charles Igwe
The Bambino Gesù Pediatric Hospital is gearing up to celebrate its momentous 100th anniversary with a special audience granted by Pope Francis on Saturday, March 16. In a press statement released on Thursday, the hospital announced the forthcoming event, highlighting its rich history and significant contributions to pediatric care.
Established in 1869 by the Salviati family, the hospital was generously donated to the Holy See on February 20, 1924, marking a pivotal moment in its journey. Over the years, the Bambino Gesù Hospital has evolved into a beacon of hope and healing for children, earning the moniker “the Pope’s Hospital” for its unwavering dedication to pediatric healthcare.
Today, situated atop the Gianicolo Hill, the hospital stands as a leading academic center for pediatric research and care in Europe. With six sites in Rome and its outskirts, it boasts 627 beds and serves a staggering number of patients annually, including 95,000 emergency room visits, 30,000 hospitalizations, and over 2.5 million outpatient services.
Notably, the hospital extends its compassionate care to children from war-torn countries, welcoming over 300 patients each year on humanitarian grounds. Additionally, it engages in international cooperation projects across 18 countries, focusing on training healthcare personnel and delivering specialized interventions.
The agenda for the centennial celebration includes a papal audience at the Vatican’s Paul VI Hall, where volunteers from various associations affiliated with Bambino Gesù will entertain the children. The highlight of the event will be Pope Francis’s address, followed by interactions with hospital officials, including President Tiziano Onesti and Duchess Maria Grazia Salviati, descendant of the hospital’s founding family.
Leading up to the audience, patients have penned heartfelt messages for Pope Francis, symbolizing their gratitude and hope. These messages will be presented to the Pope during the event, underscoring the profound impact of the hospital’s mission on young lives.
Expressing gratitude for the audience, President Onesti acknowledged the dedication of the hospital staff, emphasizing their vital role in shaping the future by caring for children from diverse backgrounds.
The audience will be broadcast live by Vatican Media and shared across Bambino Gesù’s social media platforms, allowing audiences worldwide to witness this historic milestone in pediatric healthcare.
