28th World Day of the Sick
February 11, 2020
"Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened,
and I will give you rest." (Mt 11:28)
CALL TO PRAYER
Leader
Our help is in the name of the Holy One
All
The creator of heaven and earth
Leader
When we, or those we love, become sick, everything changes. Routines are upended, roles are reversed and the future can be uncertain. Jesus experienced and bore these burdens in his lifetime and meets us with mercy, comfort and compassion.
READING Matthew 11:28-30
Reader
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew
Jesus said to the crowds: "Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon your shoulders and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart; and you will find rest for yourselves. For my yoke is easy, and my burden light.
REFLECTION
Reader The words of Pope Francis to mark this 28th World day of the Sick are for those who are ill and those who care for them:
"Jesus does not make demands of those who endure situations of frailty, suffering and weakness, but offers his mercy and his comforting presence …
Why does Jesus have these feelings? Because he himself became frail, endured human suffering and received comfort from his Father. Indeed, only those who personally experience suffering are then able to comfort others …
What is needed is a personalized approach to the sick, not just of curing but also of caring, in view of an integral human healing. In experiencing illness, individuals not only feel threatened in their physical integrity, but also in the relational, intellectual, affective and spiritual dimensions of their lives. For this reason, in addition to therapy and support, they expect care and attention. In a word, love. At the side of every sick person, there is also a family, which itself suffers and is in need of support and comfort."
Intercessions
Leader
Please respond, God of wholeness, heal them.
With Saints Juliana and Jude, we pray for all those who suffer with chronic illness.
God of wholeness, heal them.
With Saints Aloysius Gonzaga and Damien Molokai, we pray for all those who are ostracized from society due to their suffering.
God of wholeness, heal them.
With Saints Agatha and Peregrine Laziosi, we pray for those with cancer.
God of wholeness, heal them.
With Saints Anthony and Nicholas, we pray for sick children and elders.
God of wholeness, heal them.
With Saint Joseph, we pray for the dying. That they may experience a peaceful death and the healing of all earthly anxieties.
God of wholeness, heal them.
Closing Prayer
All
Tender and merciful God, you watch over your creatures with unfailing care, keep us in the safe embrace of your love. With your strong right hand, make whole all who are suffering. Give them the strength of your power and the stillness of your peace. Minister to them through the compassionate service of others and heal their every affliction. Fill those who serve the sick with new hope and joy for the good they do in your name. Amen