The Keta-Akatsi Catholic Diocese in the Volta Region has commemorated the 33rd World Day of the Sick with a heartwarming celebration that recognised and honoured exemplary health professionals within its jurisdiction.

The event, which took place at the Cuniberto Catholic Clinic and Maternity Home in Lume, Akatsi South District, was marked by inspiring speeches, prayers, and the presentation of awards to distinguished health workers for their outstanding commitment to healthcare delivery.

The World Day of the Sick, instituted by the Catholic Church, is an annual observance dedicated to praying for the sick and those who care for them. It also serves as a platform to promote compassion, empathy, and inclusive care across communities.

This year’s celebration in the Keta-Akatsi Diocese shone a spotlight on the unwavering dedication of healthcare professionals serving in the Diocese’s health facilities, many of whom work under limited resources but remain resolute in their mission to care for the vulnerable.

In a welcome address, the Acting Diocesan Administrator, Very Rev. Fr. Sebastian Gidiglo emphasized the spiritual and moral strength that must guide healthcare workers in their daily service. He urged them not to be distracted by external challenges but to remain anchored in the divine calling of caregiving.

Very Rev. Fr. Sebastian Gidiglo, Acting Diocesan Administrator:
“As caregivers, your work is not just a profession—it is a ministry. Let the healing power of God guide every step you take in service to others. Stay focused, stay prayerful, and remember that you are instruments of divine mercy.”

Also addressing the gathering, the Director of the Keta-Akatsi Diocesan Health Services, Very Rev. Fr. Lt. Col. W.D.K. Sraha (Rtd) acknowledged the numerous obstacles faced by health facilities within the Diocese, particularly issues of funding and inadequate human resources.

However, he commended the resilience of health workers and encouraged them to remain innovative and optimistic.

Very Rev. Fr. Lt. Col. W.D.K. Sraha (Rtd), Director of Diocesan Health Services:
“Despite the financial and logistical challenges we face, your dedication and ability to work under pressure continue to inspire hope and healing. Let us remain faithful and make the most of what we have to serve those who need us the most.”

A total of seven health workers drawn from various Catholic health centers under the Diocese were honoured for their remarkable contributions. Each recipient was presented with a beautifully framed citation and a double-decker deep freezer, a symbolic gesture of appreciation for their tireless efforts and service excellence.

Among the awardees was Dr. Momoduo Cham, who expressed profound gratitude for the recognition. He described the gesture as a motivation to do more and urged his colleagues in the health profession to uphold the values of compassion and diligence.

“This award means a lot to me, not just for the recognition, but for the reminder that every life we touch matters. Let us continue to serve with love, integrity, and humility.

Another award recipient echoed similar sentiments, stating that such acts of acknowledgement not only boost morale but also renew the spirit of service among healthcare workers.

“In times when our work often goes unnoticed, this recognition brings a sense of joy and encouragement. I hope it inspires others to keep doing their best.”

The 33rd World Day of the Sick celebration in Akatsi South was not only a moment of appreciation but also a clarion call to invest more in healthcare systems, especially in faith-based institutions that serve remote and underserved communities.

The event ended on a reflective note, with prayers offered for the sick, caregivers, and the continuous improvement of health services within the Diocese and the nation at large.

This year's theme and celebration reaffirmed the Catholic Church’s commitment to holistic healing—where faith, medicine, and compassion converge to uplift lives and communities.