Just as Jesus walked on water, so will this ship, named for Pope
Francis, bring solace and consolation to
hundreds of Brazilians living along the Amazon River. All these natives can
only be reached through the Amazon River and so this hospital-ship will be a
big blessing for them. The Pope reminded the people in this region that the
church is like a hospital that welcomes everyone without distinction. This
initiative was taken by Bishop Bernardo Bahlmannn of Obidos Diocese in Brazil,
together with the Franciscans of Providence. The hospital-ship will constantly
move up and down the river and give medical assistance to all those who need it.
The Brazilian
Franciscans were inspired to create the floating hospital when Pope Francis
visited their healthcare facility during World Youth Day in Rio de Janeiro in
2013. During the visit, the Pope encouraged Friar Francisco Belotti to expand his religious
order’s charitable works into the Amazon region. The boat, 32 meters in
length, contains an operating room and analysis laboratory, and is able to
provide a range of medical services, including X-rays, vaccinations, electrocardiograms, mammograms,
and ultrasounds. The hospital began treating its first patients Aug. 18, 2019. It is
staffed by 20 medical volunteers, 10 crew members, and a Franciscan boat
director.
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