Easter marks one of the most significant events in the Christian faith, observed by millions around the world. It celebrates the resurrection of Jesus, a defining moment that inspires hope, renewal and victory over adversity.
Over the past year, many healthcare organisations across the UK have faced significant financial and operational challenges. For the pharmacy profession, however, we are entering a new dawn with the establishment of the royal college, marking a historic turning point. As organisations move into a new financial year and our profession embraces a new season, the themes of new life and renewal that Easter represents feel especially poignant in our shared mission to deliver high-quality patient care and services.
Easter embodies several spiritual themes that are relevant not only to faith but also to our daily and professional lives, particularly within healthcare.
Resurrection and new life
Many of us know colleagues who have been affected by recent organisational reconfigurations. Easter reminds us that life can emerge from despair, and that hope can thrive even in the darkest moments. It reassures us that no situation is permanent and that both our personal lives and the wider world can continue to grow and flourish despite challenges.
The establishment of the Royal College of Pharmacy, following 185 years of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society, symbolises the new life of an organisation. The College will serve as our new shared professional home, reflecting our collective values, supporting excellence in practice and providing a strong, credible voice for pharmacy. This new chapter offers opportunities for all pharmacy professionals to help shape and define ‘what good looks like’.
Forgiveness and redemption
In our daily professional practice, we embody this principle through compassion for our colleagues and patients, which is a core value of our professional identity and one that will underpin the new royal college. Central to Easter is this idea of forgiveness exemplified by Jesus, who forgave even those who persecuted him.
Renewal
Celebrated in spring, Easter aligns with the natural cycle of growth and new beginnings. Just as winter gives way to the light of spring, Easter symbolises the transition from hardship to hope. It reminds us that after difficult periods, brighter days lie ahead, both personally and collectively.
At its heart, Easter is about hope and victory. It invites us to reflect, care for ourselves and one another, and embrace the opportunities of the season ahead. The new Royal College of Pharmacy represents this season, supporting a confident, collaborative and inclusive profession and enhancing pharmacy’s contribution to patient care in our daily practice.
Wishing you a peaceful and joyful Easter.
Mildred Johnson, vice-chair elect of the future Royal College of Pharmacy English Pharmacy Advisory Council
