On Feb. 11, the Memorial of Our Lady of Lourdes, our Church observes the World Day of the Sick. On that day, with focused emphasis, we raise prayers to the Lord for those who are ill and for those who attend to and provide care for them.
During the past two years, the sickness and suffering caused by the coronavirus has touched the lives of everyone. It is estimated that since early 2020, more than 900,000 people have died from the effects of the virus, which is a staggering number. However, just as staggering are the unfortunate effects these deaths have caused to families and society.
The Gospels relate many stories about the Lord’s presence to and ministry among the sick and infirm. He frequently broke societal and temple rules when He spoke with and even touched them. He healed the sick, and His reputation as a miracle worker spread throughout the region and attracted people to Him.
Our Church has the Sacrament of the Sick for those who are facing or dealing with serious illness. This Sacrament continues the healing ministry of the Lord to the sick. If you are facing surgery or dealing with a serious disease, you should avail yourself of the Sacrament of the Sick. Some parishes regularly schedule a public celebration of this Sacrament. If not, when you have a serious sickness, approach your parish priest and request the Anointing of the Sick.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that “the first grace of this sacrament is one of strengthening, peace and courage to overcome the difficulties that go with the condition of serious illness or the frailty of old age.” Strengthening, peace and courage are the gifts the Holy Spirit can realize in us through the Anointing of the Sick. More, the Spirit can “lead the sick person to healing of the soul.” The Catechism states, “If he (the sick person) has committed sins, he will be forgiven.” Not only can the Anointing of the Sick help a sick person bear suffering with faith, it also forgives sins.
The minister of the sacrament is a priest who lays hands on the sick, prays for him or her, and anoints the sick person’s hands and forehead using the Oil of the Sick blessed, if possible, by the bishop. These priestly actions reflect what is found in the New Testament. “Is anyone among you sick? He should summon the presbyters of the church, and they should pray over him and anoint him in the name of the Lord, and the prayer of faith will save the sick person, and the Lord will raise him up. If he has committed any sins, he will be forgiven.” (James 5:14-15)
VITALity Catholic Healthcare Services, sponsored by the Diocese, coordinates throughout South Jersey the Church’s ministry to the sick and infirm in institutions such as hospitals and healthcare facilities. Priests, deacons, women and men religious and dedicated lay women and men minister to the sick in these places. They visit the sick, pray with them, bring the Sacrament of Holy Communion, talk with them, interact with families, connect them to their parishes and arrange for a priest to do the Anointing of the Sick when necessary. What a wonderful service they offer as they comfort the sick in the name of Jesus. VITALity Services is available to assist the sick with other programs. Give them a call at 888-268-4825 or visit vitality.464edee1fa.nxcli.io for further information.
A priest celebrates the Last Rites for those who are dying. The Anointing is done; the Commendation of the Dying is prayed and when possible, Holy Communion is received as Viaticum, food for the final journey. Jesus with the dying person on his or her way out of this world into eternal life. Prayers for the Dead are used for a person who is already dead. The Sacraments are for the living. The dead are effectively helped by the prayers of the living.
The professionals who care for the sick and the dying are prayed for on the World Day of the Sick with thanksgiving to the Lord for doctors, nurses, technicians and all who assist them. Their constant care, compassion and labors on behalf of the sick are recognized. During the crisis caused by the virus, these professional women and men have shown their stuff and their commitment to the sick and dying.
The sick share in the Passion of the Lord in an intense way. Salvation was accomplished by the suffering of the cross. The light of faith helps us to deal with suffering, as on the human level there is no adequate understanding of it. United with Jesus Christ, the sick can experience the power and healing of His love.
Suffering and faith have something in common. Both remind us of our dependence on God for our life, our health and well-being. When illness strikes, it can throw us to the ground, afraid and uncertain. Yet, by placing us on our backs, it turns our faces and thoughts toward God.
Most Reverend Dennis J. Sullivan, D.D.
Bishop of Camden