Today, representatives of the WVU Medicine Health System announced that the new Cancer Institute to be built in Wheeling will bear the name St. Joseph Cancer Center—a tribute to the Guardian of the Redeemer and the devoted Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Bishop Mark Brennan noted that St. Joseph is not only the patron saint of the universal Church, the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston, and the cathedral in Wheeling, but he is also the greatest great example of how to be a dedicated, loving, and humble worker, father, and spouse. He worked with dignity in all those roles not only to provide, but for God. He tirelessly worked to honor Mary and protect her and the Son of God, especially when they had to escape danger time and time again.
“A diagnosis of cancer brings on great distress… so, to be under the patronage of St. Joseph and with God’s blessing this cancer center will provide hope, care, and compassion for all of us,” Bishop Mark said.
The naming of the WVU Health System’s northern regional dancer center in honor of St. Joseph is a profound tribute not only to the Catholic heritage of Wheeling Hospital which is 175 years strong, but also to the lasting legacy and resolve of the Sisters of St. Joseph. Their faithful dedication and compassionate care have been the foundation of the hospital’s strength, without which it would not stand as firmly as it does today.
Bishop Mark Brennan spoke the partnership of the WVU Medicine leadership, the Sisters of St. Joseph, and the diocese that has been and will continue to be a true lifeline in good health care for generations of people who call this Ohio Valley home.
“We are celebrating this significant day, but this has been in the working for years,” said Albert L. Wright, Jr., president and CEO of the WVU Health System. “I want everyone to realize that this is all thanks to Bishop Brennan. (The naming the cancer center in honor of St. Joseph) was his idea, and my heart is full thinking about the generosity of Bishop Brennan and the diocese.”
Director of Pastoral Care Sister Mary Ann Rosenbaum, CSJ, preceded the announcement with prayer. Standing before the crowd of hospital, diocesan, and community members, Sister was a proud and humble representative of the first six religious sisters – Sisters Anastasia O’Brien, Alexis Spellicy, Sebastian Reis, Agatha Guthrie, Mary Agnes Spencer, and Ligouri Leigh –
who in 1853 came to Wheeling from the Sisters of St. Joseph Congregation of St. Louis,
to run the hospital, care for the patients, and also provide for and teach orphans.
In 1850, Wheeling Hospital was the only hospital along the Ohio River between Pittsburgh and Cincinnati.
This latest move forward placed health care in West Virginia under the protection of St. Joseph –
there is no better protector than the Terror of Demons, to guide workers, inspire great wisdom, and protect patients and families.Prayer for the intercession of St. Joseph:
Hail, Guardian of the Redeemer,
Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
To you God entrusted his only Son;
in you Mary placed her trust;
with you Christ became man.
Blessed Joseph, to us too,
show yourself a father
and guide us in the path of life.
Obtain for us grace, mercy, and courage,
and defend us from every evil. Amen.
