The annual ceremony is a reminder of the power of compassionate care
Students pursuing careers in nursing and other healthcare professions gathered October 18 for a beloved tradition at Chaminade: the St. Luke’s Blessing of the Hands ceremony. The observance honors those pursuing lives of service and serves as a poignant reminder of the power of compassionate care.
Rooted in the Christian tradition, the ceremony is observed every year on the Feast Day of St. Luke.
“Luke was an evangelist and a physician,” said Fr. Chris Wittmann, who presided over the blessing ceremony. “If you’re looking for God’s compassion, the Gospel of Luke is a good place to start.
He added, “So it is apt to celebrate this today.”
The blessing of the hands is a time-honored tradition that seeks to acknowledge the emotional and spiritual dimensions of patient care, and honor the commitment and resilience of healthcare workers.
“Bless those who are involved with taking care of others,” said Bro. Edward Brink, vice president for Mission and Rector. He added that as Chaminade is the only Catholic university in the islands and serves the entire Pacific region, “it’s important that we continue this tradition.”
At its core, organizers said, the blessing of the hands ceremony serves as a reminder that the hands that administer care are not only instruments of healing but also vessels of compassion and empathy.
Nursing student Tia Kaʻiulani Tabisola ’25, a certified nurse’s aide, was among those who attended the ceremony. She said the gathering reminded her why she wants to pursue a career helping others.
Tabisola recounted the story of a difficult patient who she struggled to assist.
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After spending some time with him, he finally spoke and asked her if they could pray for him and his mom. They both ended up crying. “This is why I want to become a nurse,” Tabisola said. “I want to break down barriers and eliminate stigmas against the vulnerable.”
Isaiah Atalig ’25 is majoring in Forensic Sciences at Chaminade and aspires to be a doctor.
He said he takes the notion of healing to heart.
“Caring for people is my calling,” said Atalig, who is from Guam.
Atalig said in Chamorro culture, just like in healthcare professions, putting others ahead of yourself is paramount. “You care for neighbors, strangers, family, and the sick and vulnerable,” he said.