By Sr. Beena Jose, Communication Coordinator, India (Province of Southwest India – Bangalore)
Recent initiatives by our Health Care Ministry at St. Martha’s Hospital have brought together students, staff, and community members in a spirit of learning, awareness, and compassionate care.
Reflecting our deep commitment to community well-being and education, our nursing students recently engaged in various competitions designed to foster creativity and teamwork. At the same time, a session on patient communication underscored the importance of empathy and clarity in nursing practice. These foundational skills are vital as our teams extend their care beyond the hospital walls.
Key outreach events
On October 19, 2025, in observance of World Sight Day, we organized a Walkathon to promote awareness of eye health and the prevention of blindness. Similarly, our International Day of Older Persons celebration, held on October 17th, honored the elderly in our communities, fostering respect and appreciation for their contributions. Our commitment to proactive health education continued with a program on Breast Cancer Prevention at St. Euphrasia School on October 23rd, empowering students and teachers with knowledge about early detection and self-examination.
A significant part of our work involves “Reaching the Unreached.” In collaboration with various community partners, our dedicated team of doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals from St. Martha’s Hospital organized a series of multi-specialty health camps. These camps provided comprehensive check-ups and specialist consultations, focusing on preventive care and extending quality healthcare to underserved areas. Furthermore, in partnership with Don Bosco College, we held a Health Awareness Camp focused on life skill management, educating young people on healthy living, and empowering them to make positive lifestyle choices.
A healing and reconciling presence
These activities are a continuation of the Good Shepherd mission that began over a century ago in 1886 by Good Shepherd sisters in direct response to the immense suffering caused by famine and plague in Bangalore during the 1870s and 1880s. From its humble beginnings with 50 beds, St. Martha’s has grown into a renowned 450-bed multi-specialty institution, treating over 250,000 outpatients and 20,000 inpatients annually. It stands as the only hospital established by the Congregation, a testament to its unique mission of healing.
Today, through direct health care, education, and awareness-raising activities we strive to bring wholeness and comfort to all individuals and communities we serve, strengthening the spirit of service that defines our work.
Click here to learn more about the life, mission, and ministries of the Good Shepherd in India: www.goodshepherdbangalore.org
