Theme: “Compassionate Care: A Reflection of Christ’s Love”

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, l welcome you to the celebration of the 33rd World Day of the sick 2025. We in Ijebu-Ode Diocese join the Holy Father, Pope Francis and Catholics and Non-Catholics all over the world to mark and celebrate a set aside to pray for the sick, to care for the sick, to encourage the sick, and say a big THANK YOU to all our Caregivers: Doctors, Nurses, Lab and Ward attendants, indeed all HEALTH WORKERS.

Also the World Day of the Sick is an awareness day in the Catholic Church intended for “prayer and sharing, of offering one’s suffering for the good of the Church and of reminding everyone to see in his sick brother or sister the face of Christ”; the Church invites us in the Jubilee Year 2025 to become “Pilgrims of Hope” to the sick!!!

Today, as we gather to commemorate the World Day of the Sick, we take a moment to reflect on the significance of compassion and care for those who suffer in our community, particularly within our beloved Ijebu-Ode Diocese.

This year’s theme for world day for the sick is “Compassionate Care: A Reflection of Christ’s Love,” reminds us of our calling to be instruments of God’s healing grace in the lives of those who are afflicted.

In the Gospel of Mark (1:40-45), we hear the powerful account of Jesus healing a man with leprosy. The leper approaches Jesus with humility, expressing his faith that Jesus can heal him. Moved by compassion, Jesus reaches out, touches him, and says, “I am willing; be clean!” In that moment, not only does the man receive physical healing, but he also experiences profound acceptance and love.

As we reflect on this passage, we are invited to ask ourselves: How can we emulate Christ’s compassion in our own lives? How can we reach out to those who suffer, both physically and emotionally, within our families, our parishes, in our hospitals and clinics, and in our wider community?

In our context here in Nigeria, many people face significant health challenges — whether due to diseases, lack of access to healthcare, or the burdens of poverty under our Politicians. As a diocese, we must strive to embody Christ’s love by extending our hands in service. That is why we are gathered here today as Priests, Sisters, Doctors and Nurses and other health workers to encourage ourselves to give more care and attention to the sick people in our healthcare facilities. Doing this will means going beyond call of duty. It may involve volunteering more of our time and talents beyond the call of duty; it may involve collaborating with other local health facilities in our area, not as competitors but supporting initiatives that provide medical care for the underprivileged, or simply taking the time to visit and care for the sick within our community.

Beyond the call of duty as medical practitioners, today the Memorial of Our Lady Lourdes, we are reminded of the importance of prayer for the sick  in our ministry. The sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick, a profound sign of God’s presence, reminds us that healing extends beyond the physical realm. Through prayer, we can intercede for those who are unwell, lifting their spirits and reminding them that they are never alone in their suffering.

After the reception of the Holy Eucharist, we shall have the privilege to receive anointing with the holy oil for both physical and spiritual healing. We can receive the anointing for ourselves or on behalf of members of our family and friends who are not here. The Lord who is the HEALER will heal us all 🙏.

On a special day like this set aside for the care of sick, it is good and important that we once again remind ourselves in relating to our sick brothers and sisters at home or in hospitals that we should always create an environment of dignity and respect for them. In a world where illness can make people feel isolated or forgotten, let’s ensure that we create communities that are welcoming, joyful, hopeful and inclusive — places where every individual feels valued, supported, and loved.

As we observe World Day of the Sick, let us commit to being the hands and feet of Jesus Christ. May we bring comfort to those who grieve, strength to those who are weary, and hope to those who are despairing.

In a special way today let us pray for our nurses, doctors, caregivers, and all those who work tirelessly to provide care for the sick. They are truly our heroes, embodying Christ’s love through their dedication and sacrifice.

As we depart from here today, let each one of us carry the message of compassion and care with us, not only in our words but also in our actions. May we see in every sick person the face of Christ and respond with open hearts, ready to serve.

Let us pray:

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of compassion. Help us to be agents of Your healing love in our community. Grant strength to the sick, comfort to the suffering, and courage to those who care for them. May we always reflect Your love and mercy in our actions. Amen.