VATICAN CITY, DEC 13, 2006 (VIS) - The Holy Father's Message for the 15th World Day of the Sick was made public at midday today. The event is due to be celebrated in Seoul, South Korea on February 11, 2007, Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes.
In his Message, published in English and dated December 8, the Holy Father writes that "despite the advances of science, a cure cannot be found for every illness. ... Many millions of people in our world still experience insanitary living conditions and lack access to much-needed medical resources, often of the most basic kind, with the result that the number of human beings considered 'incurable' is greatly increased."
After highlighting the "need to promote policies which create conditions where human beings can bear even incurable illnesses and death in a dignified manner," Benedict XVI dwells upon the necessity "to stress once again the need for more palliative care centers which provide integral care, offering the sick the human assistance and spiritual accompaniment they need. This is a right belonging to every human being, one which we must all be committed to defend."
"The Church, following the example of the Good Samaritan, has always shown particular concern for the infirm. ... Many individuals - health care professionals, pastoral agents and volunteers - and institutions throughout the world are tirelessly serving the sick, in hospitals and in palliative care units, on city streets, in housing projects and parishes."
The Pope encouraged people suffering from incurable and terminal diseases "to contemplate the sufferings of Christ crucified. ... Trust that your sufferings, united to those of Christ, will prove fruitful for the needs of the Church and the world."
"Through her priests and pastoral workers, the Church wishes to assist you and stand at your side, helping you in your hour of need, and thus making present Christ's own loving mercy towards those who suffer."
MESS/WORLD DAY SICK/... VIS 20061213 (330)
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