52 sophomores lined up with their hopes and dreams
On November 10 the Department of Nursing in the Faculty of Human Sciences hosted the Commitment Ceremony at the Main Chapel of St. Ignatius Church.
The ceremony was held in strict observance of the traditions of Catholic nursing schools overseas. In this ceremony the sophomores will pledge their commitment to the nursing profession and is highlighted by a “blessing of the hands” of the sophomores by the priests. Hands are the symbolic representation of nursing knowledge and techniques as well as the hearts of those who are in the healing professions.
Father Masuda and Father Sakuma performing the blessing of the hands to the students
Professor Sumiko Tsuhako, Chairperson of Department of Nursing stated in her ceremonial address as follows: “What we mean by ‘to care’ is to come to grips with the foundation of human existence. All of you may go through the moment of sorrow. When you are at a loss, today is the day to remember. I hope each and every one of you will be the light that brightens the people of the world.”
Then Father Masashi Masuda gave a heartfelt message to future nurses: “Today is the day that marks an important turning point for all of you. Until today you have received a great deal of affection and loving feelings from people around you, but from now on you will be the one to give love and affection to those who need them most. You should always remember that the blessings of the Lord will always be there to guide you.”
Candles are lit and prayers went out for the peace of the world
Father Masashi Masuda and Father Tsutomu Sakuma performed the blessing of the hands to 52 nursing students in the Department of Nursing. They are the first sophomores to receive the blessings. As they took an oath, 52 students reaffirmed their determination to commit themselves to the profession of nursing.
