Always Faithful

Catholic Identity, Teaching Remains at Core of CMC

Catholic hospitals have been a vital part of Manchester’s landscape for over a century. Sacred Heart and Notre Dame laid the groundwork for this legacy more than 130 years ago, merging to form Catholic Medical Center (CMC) in 1974. We take immense pride in our Catholic identity — which drives our commitment to respecting the rights and dignity of every individual, inspired by the spirit of Jesus Christ the Healer.

But what does our Catholic identity truly mean?

CMC, like all Catholic hospitals, adheres to the Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care Services issued by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. This essential guide outlines the moral principles that govern Catholic healthcare nationwide, emphasizing the dignity of human life from conception to natural death. It advocates for compassionate, holistic treatments that address the physical, psychological, social and spiritual needs of every patient. These principles become the roadmap to each hospital’s Catholic identity and ensure that Catholic healthcare services remain faithful to the Church’s teachings while navigating contemporary medical and ethical challenges.

CMC’s Catholic identity is evident throughout our facilities — crucifixes adorn every room, our pastoral care team provides spiritual support to patients and families and Eucharistic ministers deliver communion and prayers. We also offer daily in-person and televised Masses. However, our Catholic identity extends beyond these physical expressions.

For our patients, it ensures that everyone — regardless of background, circumstances or financial situation — receives compassionate care, dignity and respect. We prioritize understanding each patient’s unique needs and concerns, fostering an environment where they feel comfortable and supported while receiving comprehensive and high-quality healthcare.

Our Catholic identity is further reflected in programs such as Women’s Wellness and Fertility Center — the only Catholic OBGYN Practice in New England offering Natural Procreative (NaPro) Technology — which has helped couples achieve pregnancy naturally since 2017.

Each September, we observe the depths of our Catholic identity during the annual Memory Garden Service, where our staff gathers to pray and comfort families who have experienced pregnancy loss. This profoundly moving service allows parents to grieve in a supportive environment, reminding them they are not alone.

As we look to the future of CMC and the changes that lie ahead, we remain committed to our Catholic identity, guiding principles and mission to carry out Christ’s healing ministry by providing health, healing and hope to all who seek our care. This commitment is as much a part of CMC as our staff, our patients and our community — and it will not change.

Alex Walker is president and CEO of CMC Healthcare System: Catholic Medical Center, New England Heart & Vascular Institute, and several subsidiaries. He and his wife, Lisa, live in Manchester.