Editorial to issue 2026-I

Dr. Marleen Coppens

Secretary of the Belgian Medical Association of Saint-Luke

Dear reader of Acta Medica Catholica

Over the past week we followed the six‑day journey of our Holy Father to Spain. In his messages, Pope Francis repeatedly invited us to “lift our eyes upward.” In Santa Cruz (Tenerife), he urged the world to “fix our gaze on the crucified Christ” and to recognize His Heart as “a source of mercy and the only remedy for humanity.”
This call to turn our attention toward the vulnerable person lies at the very heart of this edition:

On vulnerability in doctor and patient, and on the spiritual dimension of care

In this issue:

• In March 2026, Catholic healthcare professionals gathered in Paray‑le‑Monial for the annual meeting on the theme “Vulnerability in the medical world.” This edition offers an overview of several key contributions:

Prof. Sophie Izoard (Associate Professor of Theology, University of Lille) explores the biblical foundations of vulnerability. How does divine vulnerability resonate in our lives as medical staff?

Prof. Pascal Ide shows how positive vulnerability helps us see the truth about ourselves with honesty and simplicity. Genuine care arises when skill is carried by humility.

• Next, Prof. Rok Čviljak, president of the FEAMC, explains why spiritual care is a vital part of palliative medicine.
• Roger Kessler describes how spiritual accompaniment in palliative care helps people carry fear, faith, hope, and farewell.
• Finally, our editor‑in‑chief Guillaume Giroul reflects on the paradox of modern medicine: despite unprecedented progress, knowledge, and performance, anthropological, ethical, and spiritual questions are more numerous than ever. This is precisely why a journal like Acta Medica Catholica matters — a place where science and ethics meet, with care for the person in his or her full humanity.
• We conclude with the caregivers’ prayer inspired by Mother Teresa: “God, Grant that I may not count the time I will spend at Your side, in your suffering”

May these contributions inspire you in your daily practice, where vulnerability and professionalism meet.
On behalf of the entire editorial team, I wish you a beautiful summer and joyful reading!