NDKC Nursing Students Mark a Milestone in Capping, Pinning, and Candle Lighting Ceremony
Guided by the theme, “The Art and Science of Nursing Excellence: Advancing the Profession Through Courageous Service and Compassionate Care,” Notre Dame of Kidapawan College (NDKC) held its Capping, Pinning, and Candle Lighting Ceremony on September 12, 2026, at the Br. Norman Roy, FMS Gymnasium.
The ceremony marked a significant milestone in the journey of NDKC’s nursing students, celebrating their dedication, perseverance, and deepening commitment to the nursing profession.
The program began with a Eucharistic Celebration presided over by Rev. Fr. Hipolito P. Paracha, DCK. The NDKC community gathered in prayer and thanksgiving, seeking God’s continued guidance as the students prepare to embrace the responsibilities and challenges of professional nursing practice.
The capping, pinning, and candle lighting rites followed, each carrying profound meaning. The cap and pin symbolized the knowledge, skills, discipline, and values that the students have developed throughout their formation. The lighted candle represented hope, healing, truth, and their commitment to serve others with competence, courage, and compassion.
In his inspirational message, Dr. Christopher James D. Ferrer encouraged the students to remain humble enough to learn, disciplined enough to pursue excellence, courageous enough to stand for what is right, and compassionate enough to recognize the dignity of every human life entrusted to their care. He also reminded them to uphold the values of integrity, empathy, faith, and service as they continue their journey toward becoming professional nurses.
The students affirmed their aspirations through the commitment song, “One Day I’ll Wear the White,” expressing their determination to persevere until they fulfill their dream of wearing the nursing uniform and serving the sick and vulnerable.
The event was graced by the presence of NDKC President Br. Arnel S. Alfanta, FMS, and other key administrators, whose support affirmed the institution’s commitment to forming competent, compassionate, and service-oriented healthcare professionals. Nursing faculty members, clinical instructors, nurse aspirants, and fellow student nurses likewise joined the celebration and witnessed this memorable milestone.
The presence of the parents, families, and loved ones of the student nurses made the celebration even more meaningful. Their sacrifices, prayers, encouragement, and unwavering support have been instrumental in helping the students reach this important stage of their journey.
More than a ceremonial tradition, the event was a celebration of faith, formation, dedication, and the noble calling to serve. As they continue their formation, may NDKC’s future nurses learn with purpose, care with compassion, serve with courage, and bring the healing presence of Christ to every life entrusted to their care.
