Since 1992, Pope John Paul II has celebrated World Day of the Sick on February
11, the day the church celebrates Our Lady of Lourdes. This celebration has
had three consistent themes. First, it reminds all to pray intensely and sincerely
for those who are sick. Second, it invites Christians to reflect on and respond
to human suffering. Finally, it recognizes and honors all who work in health
care and serve as caregivers. In 2003 the World Day of the Sick celebration
will be held in Washington, DC.
This service, designed for groups in Catholic health care organizations, draws
on prayers developed by the National Association of Catholic Chaplains. Prayer
cards are available from NACC.
Leader
On this World Day of the Sick, we gather along with others throughout our nation
and the world. We join together to pray for the needs of those who are ill and
suffering, to recognize our responsibility to respond to this suffering, and
to recommit ourselves to service in the healing ministry of the church.
Prayer for Those Who Are Sick1
Leader
We begin by praying for those who are sick and suffering: Gracious God,
source of hope and healing, source of peace,
Across the world, we light a galaxy of candles.
All
For those tossed in the rapids of illness . . . for those lost in the maze of
addiction . . . for those locked in broken bodies . . . for those caught in
the dark night of despair . . . we pray.
Leader
Loosen the grip of pain and soothe their suffering. Throw open a wide way free
. . . a path of kindness, compassion, and sweet serenity.
All
All over the world, we are praying.
Leader
God of hope, healing, and peace, hear our prayers.
Reflection on the Healing Ministry
Leader
Confident that God hears our prayer, we turn now to hear God's word to us.
Reader
"After crossing the lake, Jesus and the disciples came ashore at Gennesaret
and tied up their boat there. No sooner had they stepped out of the boat than
people recognized Jesus. The crowds started hurrying about the countryside and
brought the sick on stretchers wherever Jesus went. Wherever he appeared—in
villages, in towns, or in the countryside—they laid down the sick in the open
places, begging him to let them touch just the fringe of his cloak, and all
who touched Jesus got well" (Mk 6:53-56).
Leader
We remember that the work entrusted to us is part of a long tradition of responding
to those in need. Today this service has an institutional presence of Catholic
health care providers. Recognizing each one of us is an important part of this
ministry, we focus on our shared identity.2
All
We are the people of Catholic health care, a ministry of the church continuing
Jesus' mission of love and healing today.
Reader
As provider, employer, advocate, citizen—bringing together people of diverse
faiths and backgrounds—our ministry is an enduring sign of health care rooted
in our belief that every person is a treasure; every life a sacred gift; every
human being a unity of body, mind, and spirit.
All
We work to bring alive the Gospel vision of justice and peace.
Reader
We answer God's call to foster healing; act with compassion; and promote wellness
for all persons and communities, with special attention to our neighbors who
are poor, underserved, and most vulnerable.
All
By our service, we strive to transform hurt into hope. Be present with us in
days and nights that are long and trying, in times of tragedy and grief. Create
in each of us a space of consolation and of peace. Amen.
- Adapted from Deborah D. Cooper, "Prayers for the Sick," National Association
of Catholic Chaplains (www.nacc.org).
- Taken from "A Shared Statement of Identity for the Catholic Health Ministry,"
Catholic Health Association, St. Louis, 2001.
Copyright © 2003 by the Catholic Health Association of the United States
For reprint permission, contact Betty Crosby or call (314) 253-3477.