Penn State Health St. Joseph Medical Center

An article appeared in the Reading Eagle, dated August 26, 1873. It follows;

St. Joseph Hospital – This institution, located in Walnut Street above Twelfth, formerly Volleys’ property, is now open and ready for the reception of all classes of patients, rich or poor, and of whatever sex, nationality or faith. Cases of accident will be admitted on application at the Hospital. All other cases must obtain a permit from Father Bornemann, Dr. M. Luther or the attending medical staff. Persons who are able to pay will be charged only at the absolute cost of boarding. Poor out-door patients will be prescribe for and furnished with medicine gratuitously on days to be hereafter designated. The Hospital is supplied with a corps of skillful and experienced female nurses, and medical attendants.”

At the expiration of the three days required by law for an advertisement of intent, St. Joseph Hospital opened its door to all regardless of race, color or creed. There was no fanfare in that long ago day, no “cutting of the traditional ribbon”, just the simple, charitable offering of its services to the poor, the sick and the injured.

From that day in 1873 to the present day, the Philosophy and the Objectives of St. Joseph Hospital have had as their goal – – loving service to those in need.

Mission

The Mission of St. Joseph’s is to nurture the healing ministry of the Church, supported by education and research. Fidelity to the Gospel urges us to emphasize human dignity and social justice as we create healthier communities.

The Core Values that guide us are:

Reverence:

Profound respect and awe for all creation; the foundation that shapes our spirituality, our relationships with others, and our journey with God.

Integrity:

Moral wholeness; soundness, fidelity, and trust in all we do.

Compassion:

Solidarity with one another; the capacity to enter into another’s joy and sorrow.

Excellence:

Pre-eminent performance; becoming the benchmark; putting forth our personal and professional best.