World Day of the Sick
Every year on February 11, the Church sets aside a day for prayer, sharing, and tender compassion. The World Day of the Sick, instituted by Pope John Paul II in 1992, calls the faithful to offer their suffering for the good of the Church and to see, in every sick brother and sister, the face of Christ. It falls on the feast of Our Lady of Lourdes, the place where millions have sought healing through Mary's intercession.
- Roots
- Instituted on May 13, 1992 by Pope John Paul II, who chose the Lourdes feast day because of the countless pilgrims reported healed at the Marian sanctuary in France; each year the reigning pope issues a message for the observance.
- Also on Feb 11
- International Day of Women and Girls in Science · Don’t Cry Over Spilled Milk Day · Guitar Day
- Hashtag
- #WorldDayOfTheSick
3 ways to celebrate
Pray by Name
Light a candle and pray by name for each person you know who is ill or caring for someone who is; keep their names in a small notebook.
Visit, Call, or Write
Visit someone who is sick, call a homebound relative, or send handwritten cards to patients at a local hospital or nursing home.
Honor the Caregivers
Thank nurses, aides, and volunteers with a meal, a note, or a donation to a hospital ministry or hospice.
Plan ahead
World Day of the Sick is observed on February 11 every year. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.
Fast facts
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