On next Friday next, 11th February, we celebrate 30th World Day of Prayer for the Sick. In 1992 Pope John Paul instituted the World Day of the Sick to encourage the people of God, Catholic health institutions and civil society to be increasingly attentive to the sick and to those who care for them. The theme chosen for this year, “Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful” (Lk 6:36), makes us first turn our gaze towards God, who is “rich in mercy” (Eph 2:4); he always watches over his children with a father’s love, even when they turn away from him. Mercy is God’s name par excellence; mercy, understood not as an occasional sentimental feeling but as an ever-present and active force, expresses God’s very nature. It combines strength and tenderness. For this reason, we can say with wonder and gratitude that God’s mercy embraces both fatherhood and motherhood (cf. Is 49:15). God cares for us with the strength of a father and the tenderness of a mother; he unceasingly desires to give us new life in the Holy Spirit. (Pope Francis).

We will celebrate the Sacrament of the Sick during 10.30 Mass on Friday morning. Those in our community who are unwell may come and join in our communal prayer for the sick and be anointed with the Oil of the Sick. Parishioners are encouraged to help sick and elderly neighbours to come to Mass on that morning.