World Day of the Sick
February 11 · Level 3 · #1629 of 2238
The World Day of the Sick is a Catholic observance dedicated to prayer and care for people experiencing illness. It also recognises relatives, health workers and volunteers whose support can make a difficult time less lonely.
How it is celebrated: parishes and hospitals hold services and prayers for the sick. Priests administer the anointing of the sick, and volunteers visit people who need practical help or companionship.
Pope John Paul II established the day in 1992, choosing the feast of Our Lady of Lourdes. Lourdes is a pilgrimage destination with a particular connection to people living with illness and disability.