Pope Francis issues message of mercy on World Day of the Sick

Friday 11th February 2022

This February marks the thirtieth World Day of the Sick, an observance introduced by St John Paul II to encourage people around the world to become increasingly attentive to those who are sick and their carers.

The theme for this year is: “Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful” (Luke 6:36).

This theme calls us to look towards God our Father, “rich in mercy” (Eph 2:4), and ever watchful over us.

In his message for World Day of the Sick, Pope Francis reminds us of Jesus’ constant reaching out to those who are sick, and calls us to carry on his work in our own lives. The pontiff pays tribute to healthcare professionals, whose service “carried out with love and competence transcends the bounds of your profession and becomes a mission,” in addition to Catholic healthcare centres, which he describes as “precious treasures to be protected and preserved.”

However, the Holy Father reminds us of the injustice that still exists in our world; highlighting the unequal distribution of Covid-19 vaccines and the lack of basic medicine and healthcare facilities in many parts of the world.

Today, may we join Pope Francis in prayer for people around the world who are sick, as well as those that care for them:

“Dear brothers and sisters, to the intercession of Mary, Health of the Infirm, I entrust all the sick and their families. United with Christ, who bears the pain of the world, may they find meaning, consolation and trust. I pray for healthcare workers everywhere, that, rich in mercy, they may offer patients, together with suitable care, their fraternal closeness.”

Read the full letter from Pope Francis here.

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Tagged | Catholic Church