The Diocese of Little Rock is seeking to start an Arkansas guild for the Catholic Medical Association. Bishop Anthony B. Taylor recently contacted Arkansas members of the CMA to inquire about interest in forming a local guild. Once six physicians from the state join, a guild can be formed.
“We are hoping to start two guilds,” said Marianne Linane, diocesan respect life director who is a CMA member and registered nurse. “Ideally we would have one in Little Rock and one in northwest Arkansas.”
One of the main activities the guild or guilds would be hosting an annual White Mass for medical personnel. The White Mass draws its name from the traditional uniform color worn by medical professionals. The Mass would be similar to the annual Red Mass, hosted by the St. Thomas More Society for lawyers, judges and law professors. The CMA guild could also host continuing education courses.
The CMA guild would be open to Arkansans of all medical professions, such as nurses, pharmacists, dentists and students.
Bishop Taylor said he believes the formation of the CMA guild in the state could also assist the diocese with promoting pro-life causes and strengthening the Catholic identity at Catholic hospitals.
For more information on the guild, e-mail Linane at mlinane@dolr.org or call (501) 664-0340.
