A MISSION OF MUTUAL CARE

For the month of July 2024, Pope Francis has urged us to dedicate our prayers to those involved in the pastoral care of the sick. His call is not just a request, but an inspiration to remember and acknowledge the tireless efforts of pastoral workers in transforming homes, nursing homes and hospitals into havens of love and blessings for the sick and the elderly. The Holy Father stresses the significance of mutual care as an essential part of the mission of the Church and a beacon of hope and inspiration for us all.

The clergy, empowered by dedication and commitment, are entrusted with the sacred duty of administering the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick. This sacrament - a profound act of healing and restoration for the mind, body, soul, and spirit - symbolises God’s boundless love and care for His people, regardless of their circumstances. The anointing, a tangible sign of God’s compassion and love, is given to those in need, providing strength and comfort. It is not solely for the terminally ill or those who feel hopeless, but a source of strength and comfort for all in need of healing - a hope in times of distress.

Many churches worldwide hold healing services on significant occasions, such as the feast of their patron saints, the anniversary of the church’s dedication, or the World Day of the Sick which falls in February. During these services, the Church extends a special invitation to its elderly and sick members, to come together and participate in the Sacrament of the Anointing. This sacrament involves anointing them with oil, representing a comforting and healing gesture that provides solace to those suffering from illness. The sacrament is not merely a preparation for peaceful death, but a source of solace and strength for the sick, and fortitude for their caregivers. Participating in the sacrament provides comfort and support, offering a transformed perspective on suffering, and fostering a renewed sense of hope. 

Having previously served as a priest in Kuala Lumpur, I had the opportunity to visit the sick in hospitals and old folks’ homes regularly, offering comfort and prayers. These visits were immensely meaningful for me, as they allowed me to provide spiritual support to those in need and to share in the healing touch of Christ in our lives.

Is healing always guaranteed? In the Sacrament, we pray for the comprehensive healing of the sick person in mind, body, soul and spirit. The Sacrament, too, offers forgiveness and healing, which is not limited to physical healing alone. Only God knows what kind of healing we need the most: perhaps easing our anxieties, healing a wound, transforming our fears into hope, embracing our loneliness, or turning confusion into insight. 

Lord Jesus, we humbly ask for your compassionate gaze upon all those who need healing of their minds, bodies and emotions. May your comforting presence bring strength and peace to them.