NDKC Lights the Path of Care: 46 Aspiring Nurses Honoured in 21st Capping, Pinning, and Candle Lighting Ceremony
KIDAPAWAN CITY — The Department of Nursing at Notre Dame of Kidapawan College (NDKC) held its 21st Capping, Pinning, and Candle Lighting Ceremony on October 11, a profoundly symbolic rite of passage for 46 second-year nursing students. The event, themed “Lighting the path of Care: Advocating Marist Nursing Innovation with Touch of Compassion,” celebrated the students’ transition from theoretical study to the practical application of nursing care, embodying commitment, compassion, and dedication to service.
The solemn ceremony took place at the Br. Norman Roy Gymnasium and marked a significant milestone, officially investing the students into the noble vocation of nursing.
A Ceremony Steeped in Tradition and Spiritual Significance
The day commenced with a Eucharistic Celebration presided over by Rev. Fr. Hipolito P. Paracha, DCK. The Holy Mass emphasised the sacredness and spiritual foundation of the nursing vocation, serving as an act of thanksgiving and consecration. During the rite, the lamps with candles, caps, caduceus pins, and nameplates — symbols of enlightenment, dedication, and professional identity—were blessed.
Fr. Paracha’s message encouraged deep reflection, reminding the students that nursing is a sacred calling that extends beyond skill, rooted in empathy, integrity, and faith.
The Profound Meaning of the Nurse’s Symbols
Each element presented during the ceremony carried profound meaning, reinforcing the values of the nursing profession:
The White Uniform symbolises purity, sincerity, and dedication, a visible pledge to serve humanity faithfully, without distinction of creed, race, or social status.
The Nurse’s Cap is an emblem of responsibility, commitment, and dignity, serving as a “crown of nobility” that calls for upholding the profession’s ideals with integrity and perseverance.
The Nameplate and Caduceus Pin embody honour, accountability, and trust. The nameplate represents the students’ personal and professional identity, while the caduceus pin symbolises the nurse’s duty to safeguard life, promote healing, and act as an instrument of compassion.
The Nurse’s Lamp with a Lighted Candle, an enduring symbol rooted in the legacy of Florence Nightingale, represents the light of knowledge, compassion, and service. The act of lighting the candle signifies the illumination of mind and spirit, urging students to provide moral and spiritual care alongside clinical competence.
The Emotional Climax: Capping and Pinning
The climax of the program saw the 46 students capped and pinned one by one before their proud parents, relatives, classmates, and clinical instructors. This symbolic act affirmed their readiness to embrace the values of care, dedication, and selflessness.
The gymnasium was filled with emotion as tears of joy and smiles of fulfilment marked this pivotal moment. It served not only as a formal rite of passage but also as a public affirmation of their calling to serve humanity with compassion.
Inspiring Words to Fuel the Journey
Dr. Christopher James D. Ferrer delivered an inspirational message, stressing the enduring human essence of nursing amidst rapid advancements in technology. “In a world shaped by technology and innovation, the heart of nursing still beats in compassion,” Dr. Ferrer stated.
He emphasized that nursing is fundamentally about restoring dignity, listening with empathy, and being a comforting presence. He issued a moving challenge to the students: “Today, you do not just wear white; you carry the hope of the world. You do not just light a candle; you become the light for others. May your compassion never run dry, your courage never fade, and your light never dim.” His words resonated deeply, inspiring the students to embody compassionate service and moral integrity.
A Tribute of Gratitude
The ceremony concluded with the students’ solemn Oath of Commitment to the Nursing Profession, followed by a heartfelt tribute. The nursing aspirants offered a song of gratitude to their families, expressing profound appreciation for the unwavering love, support, and sacrifices of their parents and loved ones. This poignant scene captured the deep connection between family, faith, and vocation essential to the nursing profession.
The successful event was a testament to the collective efforts of the NDKC Department of Nursing, led by Dr. Daisy P. Labadia, Dean of the College of Teacher Education, Liberal Arts, and Nursing, and Ms. Gay R. Sandique, RN, LPT, MN, Program Head of Nursing. Their guidance continues to inspire excellence in nursing education at Notre Dame of Kidapawan College.
By: Aila Nour S. Abas, St. N & Ms. Ritchel P. Boloron, RN, LPT, MAN
