UPDATED: White Masses were time to prayerfully recognize the service of healthcare profession

The Diocese of Trenton held White Masses on Oct. 18 to honor healthcare professionals during the feast of St. Luke the Evangelist, the patron saint of physicians. The liturgies took place at St. Robert Bellarmine Co-Cathedral in Freehold and St. Luke Church in Toms River.

Bishop David M. O'Connell served as the principal celebrant and homilist at the Co-Cathedral. During the service, healthcare workers extended their hands to receive a blessing while the congregation prayed for them.

In his homily, Bishop O'Connell noted that patients are often at their most vulnerable when facing sickness or death. He stated that while patients rely on the skill and judgment of medical staff, they also rely on their compassion. He added that patients often most remember gestures of kindness, such as a person listening to their fears or staying beside them during difficult moments.