Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

Healthcare professionals gathered on October 20 for the annual Healthcare Professionals Mass, where they were reminded of the importance of humility and hope in their practice. The event was held at the Cathedral of the Assumption in downtown Louisville and led by Archbishop Shelton J. Fabre. This special liturgy seeks God's blessing on healthcare workers through St. Luke's intercession, whose feast day is observed on October 17.

Archbishop Fabre used his homily to reflect on St. Teresa of Calcutta's life, emphasizing how humility and hope guided her work with orphans. He stated that these virtues should be central to every Christian healthcare professional's life. "Humility has to be at the core of any life of service, especially a life of service to the medical needs of one’s brothers and sisters," said Archbishop Fabre.

He warned against self-importance, referencing a Gospel reading from the Book of Mark about disciples James and John seeking positions beside Jesus in glory. "Temptation to self-importance can come at any of us, any disciple seeking to follow Jesus," he said.

Despite this temptation, Archbishop Fabre noted that Christ offered grace for self-sacrifice. "Jesus will make us like him. Humble and willing to serve even the least of our brothers and sisters," he added.

Addressing healthcare workers directly, he acknowledged their contributions: "You’ve embodied the teaching of Christ Jesus we heard proclaimed today in the Gospel." He expressed gratitude for their "extreme generosity" towards the community.

The ceremony concluded with a prayer and blessing from Archbishop Fabre: “Through the intercession of St. Luke, may the Lord bless and keep you now and forever.”