Camden Medical Guild Honors Four Healthcare Leaders
The South Jersey Catholic Medical Guild presented the Saint Luke Award to professionals for their commitment to faith and medicine.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Catholicism
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The South Jersey Catholic Medical Guild and VITALity Catholic Healthcare Services hosted the annual White Mass in Camden to honor four local healthcare leaders. The event recognized physicians and nurses who integrate their faith into their professional medical practice.
Why it matters
The ceremony highlights the intersection of spiritual life and clinical work, celebrating individuals who exemplify values-based care. By honoring these professionals, the Guild reinforces the mission of supporting those who serve the sick within the Catholic framework.
The event drew 75 attendees to the hospital chapel, where honoree Rosemary Kates was recognized for her 50 years of experience in nursing.
The players
Dr. Lisa DiMedio
She serves as the medical director of Primary Care for the Jefferson Health Alliance.
Dr. John C. Flamma Jr.
He is a retired physician and instructor at the Rutgers School of Nursing.
Rosemary Kates
She serves as a parish nurse at Saint Damien in Ocean City.
Dr. Alison Mancuso
She is the chair of the Department of Family Medicine at the Rowan-Virtua School of Osteopathic Medicine.
Father Jon Thomas
He is the priest who celebrated the White Mass for the medical community.
The details
Recipients of the Saint Luke Award included Dr. Lisa DiMedio, Dr. John C. Flamma Jr., Rosemary Kates, and Dr. Alison Mancuso. Father Jon Thomas celebrated the Mass, which was held at the Virtua Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital chapel to honor excellence in medicine.
Timeline
Oct. 18, 2026: The White Mass was held at Virtua Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital.
2023: Dr. DiMedio began serving as a preceptor.
Early 1990s: Dr. Flamma worked as an attending physician.
Culture Shift
The celebration follows the long-standing tradition of the White Mass, which provides a dedicated spiritual space for modern healthcare workers. This event reflects a broader trend of professionals seeking to align their demanding medical careers with their personal religious commitments.
Residents may see increased visibility for faith-based community health initiatives supported by the Guild and VITALity Catholic Healthcare Services. These awards emphasize the importance of parish nursing and primary care roles that directly benefit the local community.
The takeaway
Recognizing healthcare providers for both their clinical expertise and faith-based service promotes a holistic approach to patient care. Implementing a similar focus on values in professional settings can foster stronger connections between caregivers and the communities they serve.
Further reading
Learn more about local religious observance in Camden Catholicism.
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Do you believe healthcare professionals should integrate their personal faith into their clinical medical practice?
