Feb. 11, 2015

Sapientia Cordis (Wisdom of the Heart)
"I was eyes to the blind, and feet to the lame."

Leader: On this, the twenty-third World Day of the Sick, we come together to pray for those who are sick and for all who participate in their care. The theme chosen by Pope Francis for this world-wide day of prayer is "I was eyes to the blind and feet to the lame," taken from the book of Job. Time spent in solidarity with the sick is holy time — a way of praising God — and it leads us to wisdom of the heart. As we conform to the image of Jesus who came not to be served but to serve, we become servants of others.

Reader I: (Job 29:12-15)

For I rescued the poor who cried out for help, the orphans, and the unassisted; The blessing of those in extremity came upon me, and the heart of the widow I made joyful. I wore my honesty like a garment; justice was my robe and my turban. I was eyes to the blind and feet to the lame.

Leader: God of Healing and compassion, you shower us with your infinite care, and comfort all in pain and affliction.

All: Look with abundant mercy on all who suffer in body, mind or spirit. Grant healing and hope to the sick, the wounded and the dying in their darkest hours, so they may witness the power of your healing presence in the world.

Reader II (James 3:13, 17-18)
Who among you is wise and understanding? Let him show his works by a good life in the humility that comes from wisdom. … The wisdom from above is first of all pure, then peaceable, gentle compliant, full of mercy and good fruits, without inconstancy or insincerity. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace for those who cultivate peace.

Leader: We thank you, Gracious God, for all those who have contributed to the mission of Catholic health care for more than 200 years in the United States. These are the women and men who inspire and inform the work we do every day.

All: Send your merciful love and empowering presence to all who continue working to alleviate the suffering of the sick, the lonely and the broken-hearted, wherever they may be. Sustain us, your ministers of compassion and healing, in our work in the world as we continue your mission of love and healing.

Reader III (Psalm 90: 12,14)
Teach us to count our days aright, that we may gain wisdom of heart.
Fill us at daybreak with your love, that all our days we may sing for joy.

Leader: May we be the face of your Son, Jesus, who said, "Come to me all who labor and are burdened and you will find rest for your souls, for my yoke is easy and my burden light." May all who work in health care and all those who suffer with family and loved ones who are ill feel their burdens lightened through the intercession of our prayers.

All: We ask this, on the World Day of the Sick, through the intercession of Our Lady of Lourdes, whose feast we celebrate today, and in the name of your Son, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit, now and forever. Amen.