St Francis Care Centre joins the world in celebrating World Day of the Sick

People around the world annually commemorate World Day of the Sick on February 11, an observation started by Pope John Paul II as a way for believers to offer prayers for those suffering from illnesses.

The St Francis Care Centre also celebrated the day on February 10 by holding a ceremony at the centre.

Only a handful of people, including staff members and one family member of each patient, were invited to the event due to Covid-19 regulations.

Tilly Brouwer, centre manager, said the day is an opportunity to devote special attention to the sick and those who provide them with assistance and care.

“We also pray for those who are feeling vulnerable and secure in these trying times.
“In his message of the 29th World Day of the Sick, Pope Francis stated a society is all the more human to the degree that it cares effectively for its most frail and suffering members.

“Sickness makes us realise our own vulnerability and our innate need of others. The pandemic has touched each one of us in some way or another. Many people have died, leaving families and individuals in a state of bereavement and sadness,” the centre manager said.

She added that the pandemic highlighted the dedication and generosity of healthcare personnel, volunteers, support staff and religious people.

“Frontline workers have given their all, and many have sacrificed their lives. Covid-19 challenged each of us to explore our purpose and develop compassion and empathy for our fellow human being,” she added.

At the end of the ceremony, Fr Tony Thouard prayed and blessed all the sick patients at St Francis Care Centre.

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Also Read: Praying and caring for the sick