BQMH marks Our Lady of Mercy feast with community activities

BACOLOD CITY — Bacolod Queen of Mercy Hospital (BQMH) recently celebrated the feast of its patroness, Our Lady of Mercy, with activities centered on faith, service, fellowship and compassion.

The celebration began with a Holy Mass in honor of Our Lady of Mercy, bringing together BQMH employees, patients, families and members of the community.

The Mass provided participants an opportunity to give thanks and seek the continued guidance and protection of the hospital’s patroness.

In her message, BQMH Chairman Dr. Evangeline Johnson reflected on the hospital’s 26 years under the patronage of Our Lady of Mercy.

“We are now in the midst of celebrating Our Lady of Mercy, the Feast of Our Lady of Mercy, which has been our patron for the past 26 years. We are happy that the spirit of Our Lady of Mercy guides us and all our staff.”

Johnson also spoke about BQMH’s journey and its commitment to serving people from all walks of life, particularly those who are disadvantaged.

“We have gone to this point where we are now one of the most sought-after hospitals, known as the Hospital with a Heart. Having served thousands of patients in the community, and mostly, predominantly, those patients who have less in life, who are disadvantaged, we were able to give care to almost all people from all walks of life.”

Her message emphasized compassion in health care and the hospital’s commitment to serving patients and their families.

Following the Mass, the celebration continued at the hospital parking area, where employees, patients, families and guests gathered for food, games and fellowship.

The festivities featured food stations serving taho and pancakes, along with activities such as a claw machine and photo booths.

Councilor Bobby Rojas also provided hot arroz caldo for employees, patients and guests.

The Negros Island Region Lions Club provided free reading eyeglasses to members of the BQMH community as part of the celebration.

The activities reflected the hospital’s stated values of faith, mercy and service while bringing together its employees, patients and community partners.

Our Lady of Mercy, also historically known as Our Lady of Ransom, is traditionally commemorated on Sept. 24.

BQMH said the observance also served as a reminder to its hospital community to carry the spirit of compassion into the care of patients and assistance to families. (PR)