On Wednesday morning, February 12, we celebrated a treasured tradition at Soddo Christian Hospital — the white coat and foot washing ceremony for our new surgical residents. This year, we joyfully welcomed Dr. Bantayehu Jifara and Dr. Misgana Gallo into our General Surgery program and Dr. Biruk Tafesse into the Orthopedic Surgery program.
The white coat ceremony is a symbolic and sacred event, marking the beginning of a resident’s journey. Historically, this tradition began with black coats, symbolizing scholarly seriousness. Over time it shifted to white coats, signifying purity, service, and the commitment to care.
But here at Soddo and in other PAACS training programs, we’ve given this ceremony an even deeper meaning. For us, it’s not just a formal rite — it’s a time to remember, reflect on, and imitate the humility of our Lord Jesus Christ. That’s why we include a foot washing ceremony, echoing the powerful moment when Jesus, the Creator of the universe, knelt to wash the feet of His disciples.
Think of it: This Lord, who designed the galaxies, who holds all things together — He washed the dusty feet of His followers like a servant. Our Earth, just a speck in the cosmos, contains over 8 billion people. And Jesus knows every one by name – he knows the number of hairs on their head and the DNA in every cell. He hears their prayers in an instant. He knows all the creatures in every forest and the mysteries that lie beneath every ocean. Do you comprehend that? He is truly beyond comprehension!
And yet—He knelt and washed feet. He served. He humbled Himself (John 13:1-20). This is the Lord we follow who is beyond comprehension in His might and also humility.
Our foot washing day is more than just a ceremony or another Wednesday morning chapel service. It is full of longing—a day we eagerly await each year. It refreshes our spirit and renews our purpose. It reminds us that once we were lost, but now we are rescued. Once we were sinners, but now we carry His holiness. We are called to be humble like Him in His grace. Yes, humility is possible in His grace.
And this Lord who once washed feet is coming back again soon. And this time He will not come to suffer, but to reign and bring salvation to those who wait for Him (Heb. 9:28). Let’s be patient and wait upon Him. We will be changed instantly when He appears in the cloud (1 Cor. 15:51-53). “The Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” And let him who hears say, “Come!” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus (Rev. 22:17,20).
Gezahegn Tilahun, MD
Assistant Program Director, General Surgery Program
Soddo Christian Hospital
The Malamulo family had a wonderful white coat ceremony for our newest residents, Drs. Francis Donda and Joela Hayibor. The support from the hospital was the best I have ever seen and we were able to incorporate several of our staff into the program. The highlight of the ceremony was the foot washing and having our hospital chaplain, Pastor Moyo, give some words of encouragement as the residents continue on their journey of becoming Christlike surgical leaders. We finished the program with a prayer of dedication for the residents, their families, and the entire hospital team. We thank God for leading Francis and Joela to our program and look forward to the plans He has in store for them!
Brent Sherwin, MD
Program Director, General Surgery
Malamulo Adventist Hospital
