WILLEMSTAD – The Diocese of Willemstad has expressed support for the Sint Elisabeth Foundation (SEHOS) in its ongoing dispute with the Curaçao government over the financial settlement of the former Sint Elisabeth Hospital.
In a pastoral letter addressed to the people of Curaçao, the diocese stated that it finds it difficult to understand that the government wants to preserve the historic hospital complex while the foundation still has to seek a final financial settlement through the courts for the period up to 2019.
The letter was signed by Morrison Laporte, delegate of the apostolic administrator.
According to the diocese, the future of the former Sint Elisabeth Hospital cannot be viewed solely as a discussion about buildings and land. The hospital is part of Curaçao’s history, identity and social development.
The church recognizes the government’s intention to protect the cultural and historical value of the complex. However, it questions what it describes as a contradiction: preserving the buildings and heritage while the organization that created and operated the hospital continues a legal process to resolve outstanding financial matters.
“The stones” and the history
The diocese questions whether the physical buildings can truly be preserved without also respecting the history, people and institution behind the hospital.
The church specifically refers to the legacy of Monsignor Kieckens, who played an important role in the development of the Catholic hospital and its role in healthcare on the island.
The former Sehos served generations of residents and became one of the most important healthcare institutions in Curaçao before activities moved to the Curaçao Medical Center.
The diocese argues that the discussion about the future of the site should include recognition of the hospital’s social and historical significance.