Mangaluru: The week-long International Nurses Day celebration commenced with grandeur at Father Muller Charitable Institutions (FMCI) on 6 May 2025, paying tribute to the unwavering dedication and vital role of nurses in healthcare.
The early morning ceremony, held at 7:00 a.m. in front of Asha Kiran, brought together nurses of all ranks, dressed in uniform, to celebrate the profession’s strength and compassion. Organised by the Nursing Services and the College of Nursing, the event aimed to set a reflective and respectful tone for the coming week of activities dedicated to honouring nurses.
Ms Shilpa S, Assistant Nursing Supervisor, emceed the inaugural programme with grace, while the nursing students opened the ceremony with a heartfelt prayer song, seeking blessings for the profession and the celebration.
Ceremony highlights Florence Nightingale’s enduring legacy
Sr Nancy Priya Mathias, Chief Nursing Officer, Father Muller Medical College Hospital (FMMCH), welcomed the gathering with moving remarks about the integrity and courage nurses consistently demonstrate. The event’s Chief Guest, Dr Kiran, Additional Medical Superintendent, was presented with a symbolic sapling by Sr Dhaniya Devasiya, Principal of Father Muller School and College of Nursing, in a gesture reflecting growth and care.
The ceremonial lighting of the Nightingale lamp by Rev. Fr Richard Aloysius Coelho, Director of FMCI, evoked the spirit of Florence Nightingale, a guiding light in modern nursing. Dr Kiran unveiled the official theme for International Nurses Day and addressed the gathering with encouraging words. “You are the anchors of the healthcare system,” he said. “Let your faith sustain you. Through your hands, God heals.”
A symbolic sash commemorating Nurses Week was released by the Director and Chief Guest, adding a ceremonial flair. Fr Jeevan Joseph, Administrator of FMMCH, honoured Dr Kiran with a memento in appreciation of his presence and support.
Milestones and future expansion in nursing education
During his Presidential Address, Rev. Fr Richard shared notable updates from the institution. He proudly announced that the intake for the BSc Nursing programme at Father Muller College of Nursing (FMCON) has been increased to 250 seats, approved by the Indian Nursing Council. Additionally, he expressed optimism about expanding the Thumbay campus with a proposed intake of 100 seats.
He commended the nursing staff for their tireless service, particularly in providing comfort and empathy to patients and their families. “Nurses are the largest community within FMCI, numbering over 700. Their commitment marks every chapter of our institution’s legacy,” he said.
Gratitude and celebration conclude the opening day
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr Agnes EJ, Vice Principal of FMCON, who expressed gratitude to everyone who contributed to the successful launch of the celebrations.
The Father Muller anthem, “We come to comfort and to heal,” was sung in unison, reinforcing the shared commitment to care and healing. The event closed on a warm note with the distribution of sweets, symbolising the affection and comfort nurses offer daily in their professional lives.
Nurses are often the unsung heroes of healthcare, offering presence and healing beyond medicine. At Father Muller, a name synonymous with exemplary nursing care, this week-long celebration stands as a tribute to the profession’s nobility, empathy, and resilience — qualities that continue to shape the core of the institution’s service ethos.
