From Sunday, February 1 to Saturday, February 7, 2026, the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board joins Catholic health organizations across Canada in celebrating National Catholic Health Care Week — a time to reflect on the healing mission of Catholic health care and its profound commitment to dignity, compassion, and care for the whole person.
This annual week leads into The World Day of the Sick on February 11, a day of prayer and reflection established by Pope John Paul II to honour those who are ill and all who walk alongside them with love, faith, and service.
Open Hearts, Healing, Hope
This year’s theme, “Open Hearts, Healing, Hope,” reminds us that healing is not something we do alone, it is rooted in relationship, community, and shared humanity. Inspired by Catholic social teaching, the theme calls us to reflect on how compassion, justice, and solidarity shape our care for one another, especially those who are most vulnerable or marginalized.
It invites us to recognize the dignity of every person, listen deeply to the needs of our communities, and foster participation and belonging, values that are lived each day through the work of Catholic health care providers and caregivers across the country. In a world that often feels divided and uncertain, this theme celebrates the strength found in walking together with open hearts and hope.
The Courageous Gift of Catholic Health Care
For more than 400 years, Catholic health care in Canada has embodied the healing ministry of Jesus, serving with compassion, humanity, and respect for the whole person, body, mind, and spirit. Guided by Gospel values and the legacy of founding congregations, Catholic health care continues to be a leader in innovation, advocacy, and partnership within our health system.
Throughout National Catholic Health Care Week, we are encouraged to reflect on and share the courageous gift of Catholic health care, a mission rooted in love, dignity, and belonging. It is an opportunity to honour those who provide care, bridge gaps, and help create a society where all are seen, heard, and valued.
Learn more at the National Catholic Health Care website