Praying and caring for the sick
Every year on February 11 people around the world commemorate World Day of the Sick, an observation started by Pope John Paul II as a way for believers to offer prayers for those suffering from illnesses.
St Francis Care Centre also commemorated the day on February 12 under the theme ‘promoting a culture of generosity’.
Over 30 people attended the ceremony including home-based care workers, social workers, nurses, St Francis patients and employees.
According to St Francis Care Centre manager, Tilly Brouwer, Pope John Paul II was the head of the Catholic Church who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease as early as 1991.
“He then decided to create a World Day of the Sick only one year after his diagnosis.”
“We, at St Francis Care Centre, celebrate this day by praying for the sick and suffering patients in our communities, hospitals and hospices.
“We also pray for all professionals such as doctors, nurses, social workers, care helpers, occupational and physiotherapists and others who provide care to those who are sick and suffering,” Brouwer said.
St Francis Care Centre social worker, Thuli Mbatha, said: “Working with the sick is a huge responsibility because they are mostly vulnerable, they feel hopeless and have fear.
“These patients look to us, doctors, nurses, social workers and family members to provide them with comfort and sometimes answers.”
Mbatha further highlighted that empathy and generosity is very important when providing health care.
After all the speeches, Deacon Bob Johnstone prayed and blessed all the sick patients at St Francis Care Centre.
Also Read: St Francis Care Centre raises awareness on palliative care
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