RANAU: The community of St. Peter Claver Church honoured the unwavering dedication and compassion of healthcare professionals in conjunction with International Nurses Day.
The event, held to commemorate the legacy of Florence Nightingale, featured a moving address by Rev. Fr. Ambrose Atang, who emphasised the profound impact nurses have on the physical and spiritual well-being of their patients.
Despite the rainy weather, the atmosphere inside the church was warm and joyful. Rev. Fr. Ambrose expressed his deep gratitude to nurses, doctors, and all healthcare workers serving in Ranau and across Sabah. He highlighted that their work goes far beyond administering medication; it is a profound service to humanity.
“In our community, who will say thank you?” Rev. Fr. Ambrose asked the congregation, underscoring the often-overlooked sacrifices made by healthcare workers. “This is truly a service that affects the entire community. Without them, it would be difficult for all of us.”
A central theme of his speech was the psychological and emotional support nurses provide.
He noted that a nurse’s kindness, friendly demeanour and comforting presence can significantly accelerate a patient’s recovery.
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“I believe that it is not just the medicine that heals,” he said. “The psychological support, the warmth of the nurses, and their ability to comfort patients leave a stronger impact and contribute to a faster recovery.”
Rev. Fr. Ambrose also touched on the spiritual dimension of nursing, describing their care as reflecting the “face of Christ” in their hearts. He extended his appreciation to nurses of all religious backgrounds, acknowledging their shared commitment to serving those in need.
“This extraordinary work is a form of love for our fellow human beings,” he added.
The celebration also paid special tribute to retired nurses who attended the event. Rev. Fr. Ambrose commended their enduring spirit of service, noting that even though they are no longer officially on duty, their desire to serve remains strong.
The event concluded with a prayer for the continued blessings and strength of all healthcare workers, leaving attendees with a renewed sense of appreciation for the vital role nurses play in society.
