Mission Moments

Monthly mission moments to reflect and pray on weekly.

Statue of St. Francis of Assisi Statue of St. Francis of Assisi

Reflection

Acting for Justice

During Lent, many choose to fast in some way, such as giving up chocolate as a sacrifice. God invites us to think about fasting as actions that pursue justice: “… Sharing your bread with the hungry, sheltering the oppressed and the homeless; Clothing the naked when you see them...” (Isaiah 58:7)

God of justice, help us to act with justice toward those in need in our communities. May we be advocates so that all experience the necessary conditions for good health.

I invite you to contribute to justice in your community by advocating for those in need of the basic conditions for health.

Caregiver with patient walking outside.Monthly Mission Module
February 2026

The World Day of the Sick, established by St. John Paul II in 1992, is an annual day of prayer, reflection and action for the sick and their caregivers, like us. 

We in Catholic health care are all called to recognize the face of Christ in our sick and vulnerable brothers and sisters and respond to them with compassion. 

This year, the theme of the World Day of the Sick is on the gospel figure of the Samaritan who shows love by caring for the suffering man who fell into the hands of thieves. This highlights the importance of the concrete work of loving our neighbor, through which we enter into their suffering and meet them in their pain, fear, and loneliness.

Reflection

"He said to Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?” Jesus replied, “A man fell victim to robbers as he went down from Jerusalem to Jericho. They stripped him and beat him and went off leaving him half-dead. 

A priest happened to be going down that road, but when he saw him, he passed by on the opposite side. Likewise, a Levite came to the place, and when he saw him, he passed by on the opposite side. But a Samaritan traveler who came upon him was moved with compassion at the sight. 

He approached the victim, poured oil and wine over his wounds and bandaged them. Then he lifted him up on his own animal, took him to an inn and cared for him. 

The next day, he took out two silver coins and gave them to the innkeeper with the instruction, ‘Take care of him. If you spend more than what I have given you, I shall repay you on my way back.’ Which of these three, in your opinion, was neighbor to the robbers’ victim?” 

He answered, “The one who treated him with mercy.” Jesus said to him, “Go and do likewise.”

— Luke 10:30-37


Team Discussion

  • Who are our neighbors at HSHS? What neighbors might we be avoiding?
  • The Samaritan embodies true neighborly love because he acts on mercy and compassion. How can you and your team become true neighbors to our patients, guests, and community members?

Dates to Remember

February | Black History Month

February 11 | World Day of the Sick

February 20 | World Day of Social Justice


Download the February Mission Module

Tulips in a fieldMonthly Mission Module
March 2026

As Catholic health care workers, we stand on a foundation built by women religious whose faith shaped both our mission and our daily practices. 

Communities such as the Hospital Sisters of St. Francis responded to the needs of their times with courage, creativity, and deep trust in God’s providence. 

They cared for the sick during epidemics, on battlefields, and in underserved communities, often with limited resources but unwavering compassion. Their legacy challenges us to see Christ in every patient, to uphold human dignity, and to serve especially those who are poor and vulnerable. 

In continuing their mission, we are participating in a living ministry of healing rooted in faith, hope, and love.

Reflection

“The cause of suffering humanity knows no religion and no sex; the charity of the Sisters of St. Francis is as broad as their religion.” 

— Mother Alfred Moes, founder of the Franciscan Sisters of Rochester


Team Discussion

  • In what ways do I see the legacy of the early Catholic sisters reflected in my daily work, especially in how I treat patients who are poor, vulnerable, or marginalized?
  • When I face stress, limited resources, or difficult situations, how can I draw inspiration from the courage and faith of communities like the Hospital Sisters of St. Francis?

Dates to Remember

March | Women's History Month 

March 8-14 | National Catholic Sisters Week

March 17 | St. Patrick's Day

March 19 | Feast of St. Joseph


Download the March Mission Module