Honouring the History and Impact of Catholic Healthcare: UIW Hosts 2026 Pierre Lecture

Summary

A February 2026 lecture at the University of the Incarnate Word by Sr. Teresa “Tere” Maya of the Catholic Health Association, titled “Care for All: What Does ‘Catholic’ Mean in Healthcare?” It presents Catholic healthcare as rooted in the healing ministry of Jesus and shaped by health equity, Catholic Social Teaching, mercy, dignity, and whole-person care. The piece emphasizes the historical role of Catholic institutions in serving vulnerable and marginalized communities and argues that Catholic healthcare should continue to adapt to changing needs while remaining faithful to its mission.

University Of The Incarnate Word

Relevance

The article reflects a mission-focused account of Catholic healthcare identity illustratIing how Catholic institutions publicly describe Catholic healthcare in terms of ministry, whole-person care, community benefit, and continuity with a historic religious mission. It employs contemporary Catholic rhetoric about what makes healthcare “Catholic,” particularly in relation to service, identity, and institutional purpose.