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Vancouver Archbishop recalls sisters’ legacy of compassion
Paul Brown (left), society chair of Providence Health Care, and Peter Bull (right), vice-chair of Providence’s board, unveil the new cornerstone for Vancouver’s St. Pau’s Hospital Dec. 6 with Vancouver Archbishop J. Michael Miller.
Photo from Providence Health Care
December 21, 2024
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Vancouver
The enduring legacy of the Sisters of Providence, who founded the original St. Paul’s Hospital in 1894, was front and centre Dec. 6 as Vancouver Archbishop J. Michael Miller blessed the cornerstone for the new St. Paul’s Hospital being built in False Creek Flats.
Francis Maza, Providence Health Care’s vice president of mission, ethics and spirituality, reminded the gathering of the sisters’ foundational mission: “While many things have changed, we choose to emulate their work ethic, drive for excellence and commitment to holistic care.”
The sisters’ faith “called them to treat everyone regardless of race, religion or ability to pay,” she said. “The mission that compelled the nuns is what compels us now. Carrying on this legacy is now up to us.”
A Providence spokesperson said the ceremony helped connect the hospital’s history with its future, “grounding the new hospital in our ongoing commitment to our mission and values.”
The text on the cornerstone reads:
A.M.D.G.
For the Greater Glory of God
St. Paul’s Hospital
December 6, 2024
He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.
Ps. 147:3
Historically, cornerstone blessings have deep roots in Catholic tradition, reflecting stability, purpose, and alignment with greater principles. In the case of the hospital, the cornerstone is a reminder of Providence’s principles: faith, service and a dedication to holistic healing, Providence said in a statement.
As he led the ceremony and prayers, Miller reminded the audience, which included Providence Health Care leaders and supporters, of Providence’s commitment to building a new facility rooted in shared values, community and mission.
“May this new hospital become a beacon of hope and healing, a sanctuary of compassion, and a testament to God’s love for our suffering brothers and sisters,” said Miller.
Fiona Dalton, president and CEO of Providence Health Care, said the hospital will “respond to the needs of our community in a new era of health care, one marked by challenges and opportunities we couldn’t have imagined a generation ago. We embrace new approaches and technologies, always with a heart for service and commitment to excellent care worthy of this foundation.”
The new hospital is set to open in 2027, and over 1,600 tradespeople are now working on exterior finishes, interior drywall and major equipment installation. The hospital will feature 548 beds and expanded services in critical care, surgery and outpatient care, including specialized programs in heart and lung health, renal care and mental health.
The total cost of $2.174 billion is being paid for by the B.C. government, which is contributing $1.327 billion, St. Paul’s Foundation, which has committed to raising $125 million, and Providence Health Care, which will cover the remaining balance, partly funded by the sale of the current St. Paul’s property.
A version of this story appeared in the December 22, 2024, issue of The Catholic Registerwith the headline "Cornerstone blessed for new St. Paul’s Hospital".
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