WILLEMSTAD – The former Sint Elisabeth Hospitaal (SEHOS) will celebrate its 170th anniversary this Thursday, December 4, with a commemorative mass at the St. Famia Church in Otrobanda. The Sint Elisabeth Foundation (SEF), which preserves the historical legacy of SEHOS, is extending a special invitation to former employees to join a short procession ahead of the service — wearing their old SEHOS uniforms.
The foundation describes the anniversary as a moment of gratitude and recognition for the hospital’s deep-rooted contribution to Curaçaoan society since 1855. According to the program, SEHOS stood for 170 years as a place where staff worked “with love, dedication and compassion, especially for the most vulnerable.”
SEHOS played a central role in Curaçao’s healthcare system for generations, serving as the island’s main hospital until the transition to the Curaçao Medical Center (CMC). The event aims to honor that legacy and to reflect on the institution’s enduring impact.
The procession will begin at the entrance of St. Famia Church, guided by the Zusters van Liefde, followed by a ceremonial program featuring remarks from SEF chairman Anthon Casperson. The mass will be led by chaplain Father Alexander and will conclude with expressions of gratitude on behalf of the foundation. The celebration is open to the public.
With this anniversary, SEF hopes not only to commemorate 170 years of medical history, but also to keep alive the spirit and values of the former SEHOS during a period of major transformation in Curaçao’s healthcare landscape.