When the Pontiff Met Sheba Medical Center

There are moments in the annals of Sheba Medical Center’s history, which are positively astounding and breathtaking.

Several months ago, one of Pope Francis’ closest advisors in the Vatican quietly visited Sheba to see and experience the medical wonders and compassion granted to patients from all walks of life and religions. The advisor was emotionally moved by his visit with Alon Kaminer, a severely wounded soldier being treated in our orthopedic rehabilitation hospital, who despite his debilitating injuries, expressed his optimistic outlook on life.

Last week, in an historic encounter at the Vatican in Rome, Prof. Yitshak Kreiss, Director General of Sheba Medical Center, along with Yoel Har-Even, Director of Sheba Global brought Alon Kaminer, to have a private audience with Pope Francis.

Pope Francis was galvanized by the encounter and blessed Kaminer, emphasizing that humanity and faith, alongside high-quality medical care not only offers hope and a return to life, but also acts as a bridge between the nations of the world. 

Prof. Kreiss also lauded the pontiff for his efforts to free the remaining hostages in Gaza and offered to expand Sheba’s relationship with the Holy See.

Kreiss and Har-Even also met with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State, to discuss issues of mutual interest.