World Day of the Sick
In 1993, John Paul II created a world day dedicated to the sick and hoped it would help others see people with dignity.
The sick and the suffering always had a special place in the heart of St John Paul II. Even early on in his priestly ministry, he would frequently visit nursing homes and hospitals, always asking for their prayers.
While pope, John Paul II instituted the “World Day of the Sick”, to be celebrated annually on 11 February, the feast of Our Lady of Lourdes. In a letter for that first celebration in 1993, John Paul II explained his hopes for this celebration.
The World Day of the Sick — in its preparation, realisation and objectives — is not meant to be reduced to a mere external display centering on certain initiatives, however praiseworthy they may be, but is intended to reach consciences to make them aware of the valuable contribution that human and Christian service to those suffering makes to better understanding among people and, consequently, to building real peace.
He did not want it to be a mere “external” celebration, but to have an “internal” effect, forming the hearts of all to see the inherent dignity of every human person.
It was his intention to “humanise” medicine, reflecting the physical and spiritual aspects of it.
The hope that is so alive today for a humanisation of medicine and health care requires a more decisive response. To make healthcare more humane and adequate it is, however, essential to draw on a transcendent vision of man which stresses the value and sacredness of life in the sick person as the image and child of God. Illness and pain affect every human being: love for the suffering is the sign and measure of the degree of civilisation and progress of a people.
To truly celebrate this day, we need to consider how we can treat others with authentic human dignity, and how that can transform the realm of healthcare.
We also remember the work of our chaplains and the doctors, nurses and other health professionals who comfort the sick every day, providing treatment to people during some of their darkest moments.
Message from Pope Francis - World Day of the Sick 2024