Call to Prayer
Leader
We are gathered today to mark the 19th annual World Day of the Sick. This was first requested by John Paul II in 1992 and now Pope Benedict XVI continues the call for us to reflect on the realities of suffering and sickness in our world. This year the Pope invites us “to invest more in health systems that are a help and a support for the suffering, above all the poorest and the most needy.”
Let us listen to a reading from the second letter of Paul to the Corinthians (1:36)
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. For as we share abundantly in Christ’s sufferings, so through Christ we share abundantly in comfort too. If we are afflicted, it is for your comfort and salvation; and if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which you experience when you patiently endure the same sufferings that we suffer.
The Word of the Lord.
All
Thanks be to God.
[Moment for Silent Reflection]
Leader
Please join in a psalm prayer of response:
R/. The just person is a light in darkness to the upright.
All
R/. The just person is a light in darkness to the upright.
He is a light in the darkness for the upright;
he is generous, merciful and just.
The good man takes pity and lends,
he conducts his affairs with honor.
R/. The just person is a light in darkness to the upright.
The just man will never waver;
he will be remembered forever.
He has no fear of evil news;
with a firm heart he trusts in the Lord.
R/. The just person is a light in darkness to the upright.
With a steadfast heart he will not fear;
Open-handed, he gives to the poor;
his justice stands firm forever.
His head will be raised in glory.
R/. The just person is a light in darkness to the upright.
Leader
Now let us pray for the sick who are with us and the needs of all people.
Our response is: Lord, hear our prayer.
For the sick and suffering throughout the world. . .
Lord, hear our prayer.
For our President and Congress as they continue the work for health care reform. . .
Lord, hear our prayer.
For the poor who are unable to secure health care. . .
Lord, hear our prayer.
For all communities of faith to see us as an extension of their ministry. . .
Lord, hear our prayer.
For all caregivers everywhere. . .
Lord, hear our prayer.
Leader
Please join me in a closing prayer…
All
Lord, our God,
who watches over your creatures with unfailing care,
keep us in the safe embrace of your love.
With your strong right hand raise up your servants
and give them the strength of your own power.
Minister to them and heal their illnesses,
so that they may have from you the help they long for.
We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.