May 24 was a special day for “Armenian Caritas” as the finalist of Aurora prize 2017 Dr. Tom Catena and his colleagues honored the office by their presence. Dr. Catena practices and treats around 750,000 patients in the Mother of Mercy Hospital in Sudan. Patients frequently travel by foot for up to a week to reach him. Dr. Catena was born in New York City and received his medical degree from Duke University. 

In 1990 Dr. Catena joined the Catholic Medical Mission Board which, by the way, was a generous supporter of “Armenian Caritas.” Before moving to Sudan, Dr. Tom was a military doctor and also worked in Kenya, including the slums of Nairobi. The New York Times has published instructions on how to donate to Catena. Dr. Tom’s life and work were depicted in the documentary film ”The Heart of Nuba” by Ken Carlson. 

When Dr. Catena was asked where does he get his energy and motivation from, he credited his Catholic faith.  In Sudan he is called “Jesus Christ,” owing to his constantly healing the sick, helping the lame walk, and making the blind see.  

Over 200 employees and volunteers of “Armenian Caritas” also constantly and continuously serve the poor and vulnerable and are never afraid of difficulties.  

Mysterious are the ways of the Lord. No one knows where his mission is and where he is the most needed. The visit was a way to acquire more inspiration and dedication.