World Day of the Sick: “It is not good for man to be alone” (Gen 2:18)
The desire for communion inscribed in our being
In his message for the 32nd World Day of the Sick, Pope Francis invites us to care for the sick by caring for relationships. He insists on the fundamentally relational nature of humanity. God created man for communion, to live in relationships of friendship and mutual love, in the image of the Trinity.
The pain of isolation during the pandemic
The Covid-19 pandemic exacerbated loneliness, affecting not only isolated patients but also overworked healthcare workers and people facing death without the presence of their families.
The distress of war victims
The ravages of war leave many people without support or assistance, exposing the most vulnerable to profound loneliness and distress.
Loneliness in the context of old age and illness
Even in prosperous societies, loneliness often accompanies old age and illness, the result of an individualistic culture that values performance over human relationships.
The role of the culture of individualism
The culture of individualism contributes to isolation by dehumanising the elderly and sick, seeing them as a burden when their productivity declines.
A call for closeness and compassion
In the face of illness, Pope Francis stresses the importance of closeness and tenderness, inviting everyone to care for human relationships in all their dimensions.
The example of the Good Samaritan
Pope Francis encourages us to follow the example of the Good Samaritan, who cares for his suffering brother with compassion and tenderness, taking the time needed to be present.
A call for a change of perspective
In a world marked by individualism and indifference, Christians are called to adopt the compassionate outlook of Jesus and to work towards a culture of tenderness and compassion.
The place of the sick and frail in the Church
The Pope reminds us that the sick, the frail and the poor must be at the heart of the Church and of our concerns, calling for concrete solidarity and fervent prayer for them.
Trust in the intercession of the Virgin Mary
Pope Francis recommends turning to the Virgin Mary, Health of the Sick, to intercede for closeness and fraternal relationships within the human community.
In summary, Pope Francis’ message highlights the profound need for human communion and tenderness in the face of loneliness and illness, calling on everyone to act with compassion and to promote a culture of closeness and fraternity.