Vatican City, 9 February 2014 (VIS) –
Following today's Angelus prayer, the Pope recalled that next
Tuesday, 11 February, the feast of the Virgin of Lourdes, will also
be World Day of the Sick, “a propitious occasion for placing the
sick at the centre of the community”, and he asked all those
present to pray for them and with them, and to be close to those
suffering ill-health. “In particular, let us imitate Jesus'
attitude towards the sick, those who suffered from every type of
malady: the Lord cares for all, shares in their suffering and opens
hearts to hope”.
He also gave thanks to all healthcare
professionals for their valuable work. “Every day they encounter in
the sick not merely bodies marked by fragility, but also people, to
whom appropriate attention and responses must be given. The dignity
of the person is never reduced to his or her faculties or capacities,
and is no less when that person is weak, disabled or in need of help.
I also think of families, where it is normal to care for those who
are sick; but at times the situation can become more difficult. ...
Many people write to me, and today I would like to assure a prayer to
all these families, and I say to them: do not be afraid of fragility!
Help each other with love, and you will all be aware of God's
consoling presence”.
The Bishop of Rome mentioned that in
these days the Winter Olympics will begin in Sochi, Russia, and
greeted all the organisers and athletes, expressing his hope that it
will be “a true celebration of sport and friendship”.
Finally, Pope Francis offered some
words to those affected by natural disasters in various countries,
including those here in Rome. He assured them of his closeness and
commented, “nature challenges us to be united and attentive in
caring for his Creation, also to prevent, as far as possible, the
most serious consequences”.
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