Established by Pope Saint John Paul II in 1992, the World Day of the Sick is observed annually on the liturgical Memorial of Our Lady of Lourdes, a significant day of devotion to the Blessed Mother, who is a powerful intercessor for the sick. In a particular way on this day, the faithful are invited to reflect more deeply on the Church’s teachings about sickness and caring for the sick, as well as to express solidarity with the sick through works of charity and special prayers, including the option of attending Mass, and by encouraging and expressing appreciation toward caregivers.
In his message for this 33rd World Day of the Sick, which you can read here, Pope Francis offers a reflection on the theme, “‘Hope does not disappoint’ (Rm 5:5) but strengthens us in times of trial,” emphasizing the profound role the Christian tradition accords to the theological virtue of hope in moments of illness and suffering. Pope Francis reminds the faithful that physical illness can have emotional and spiritual effects. The Holy Father calls for our renewed commitment to caring for the sick with love, compassion, and faith, recognizing that hope is a gift that sustains both those who suffer and those who accompany them.
Today we invite you to pray the special prayer found below, and reach out to caregivers and those who are ill in your life, offer your support in any way you can, even if all you can do is journey with them.
