By Charles Igwe
In response to Pope Francis’ call, four prominent Catholic healthcare institutions in Italy have come together to formalize a collaboration aimed at enhancing their efforts in research, healthcare, and medical training.
The agreement, officially signed in the presence of Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, signifies a united effort to bolster cooperation and provide scientifically advanced therapies to individuals afflicted by various illnesses.
This historic agreement involves the active participation of four esteemed institutions: the Bambino Gesù Paediatric Hospital, the Agostino Gemelli University Polyclinic Foundation, the Gemelli Isola Tiberina Hospital, and the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart. All of these institutions strongly resonate with the values inherent in Christian-inspired healthcare and are committed to offering tangible responses to the evolving healthcare landscape and the callings of Catholic institutions.
Cardinal Parolin, speaking during the signing ceremony at the Holy See’s Secretariat of State, conveyed the Holy See’s aspirations for this collaborative endeavor. He highlighted its alignment with the mission of the Pontifical Commission for Activities of the Health Sector of the Public Legal Persons of the Church. The cardinal expressed the desire to achieve results that would ensure the highest standard of care for all individuals. He also commended the goal of advancing effective and innovative models in university education, benefiting younger generations of students.
This Collaboration Agreement is a direct response to Pope Francis’ invitation on April 13, 2023, issued during his audience with members of the Association of Religious Socio-Health Institutes (ARIS). In his call, the Holy Father urged Catholic healthcare institutions to uphold their founding values through competent and transparent management, blending research, innovation, dedication to the most vulnerable, and a holistic vision. He encouraged them to unite their strengths and resources, transcending competitive spirit in favor of a collaborative network.
