The growing families of staff at Mater Private Hospital Townsville were celebrated at a Babies Welcoming and Blessing Ceremony held as part of the facility’s annual Christmas Liturgy on Tuesday 13 December.

The ceremony recognised the 40 babies born into Mater families over the past 12 months.

Mater Private Hospital Townsville Interim Executive Officer Stephanie Barwick said the annual event was a favourite among staff – and this year’s held special significance to her.

“As a Catholic not-for-profit organisation, holding events such as the Christmas Liturgy and Blessing of Babies remains important to our Mater People,” Ms Barwick said.

“2022 will hold a special place in my heart, with my one year old son Hank a part of this year’s Blessing of Babies.

“Our Mater People are dedicated to empowering all people to live better lives through improved health and wellbeing, and this includes their own families: we are incredibly proud of our extended Mater family, young and old.

“While we have seen 40 staff babies born this year, Mater Mothers’ Private Townsville saw more than 600 babies delivered over the past 12 months.”

Mater Private Hospital Townsville Mission Integration Manager Joe McCarthy said the Christmas Liturgy remained an important annual tradition.

“While Mater provides compassionate care to all, we also continue to reflect on our Catholic ethos; with Christmas one of the most important events on our calendar each year,” Mr McCarthy said.

“Christmas is a time, not only to be with those we love, but to reflect on the miracle that is the birth of Jesus and the grace, blessings and love shown by God to each and every one of us.”