We recognize that we must serve as good stewards of our parish and community. We should also be good stewards of our own health and the health of those in our community. Our Medical Ministry was founded in December 2019 to support that mission.
“I equate stewardship with love, gratitude, and a way of life that leads to God,” says Alicia Montojo, retired registered nurse and main contact for the Medical Ministry. “The Medical Ministry is a team of amazing and committed individuals who show these qualities by giving their time to serve our community. They use their knowledge, skills, and compassion to care for any individual experiencing a medical emergency, big or small.”
This ministry is comprised of parishioners who have medical experience, both current and retired, who can provide skilled emergency care to the All Saints community during Sunday Mass and other social activities. The ministry’s goal is to have two medical professionals covering each Mass to assist the ushers.
The Medical Ministry is open to any parishioner who has a medical background, whether a current medical professional or retired. There are a few requirements for joining — being a registered parishioner at All Saints Catholic Church, completing an annual Safe Environment training course, a short interview with Alicia, and a brief training session to learn about where and what supplies are used during medical emergencies.
“By helping someone become physically healthy, we show our love, compassion, and empathy,” Alicia says. “We show that we care for them and provide them with a sense of belonging to our church family. When someone does not feel well physically, that affects their ability to concentrate and focus on the Mass.
“We look at all people holistically, meaning body, mind, and spirit,” she adds. “When one area is affected, all areas are affected. By addressing the physical need, our hope is to create that return to balance for their spiritual and mental well-being.”
Medical emergencies and injuries are typically unexpected. The Medical Ministry strives to make a difference by providing their knowledge and skills to assess and address such an event.
“As the church, we are called the living body of Christ on earth,” Alicia says. “In order to participate fully as members, we are called to meet the needs of the whole person. We are created to know, love and serve God. By serving our neighbors’ physical and spiritual needs, we are serving God.”
If you are interested in the Medical Ministry or have any questions, contact Alicia Montojo at wmontojo@msn.com.
