A new perspective for the Sick 2024 Campaign
The Department of Pastoral Health of the Spanish Episcopal Conference has proposed a new motto for the Sick 2024 Campaign: “Give hope in sadness”. This initiative, which began on February 11 with the World Day of the Sick, has been an opportunity to reflect on the role of faith and prayer in the face of illness.
A message of hope and trust
The bishops of the Episcopal Subcommission for Charitable and Social Action for this year’s Easter of the Sick have invited to celebrate this day in the context of the preparations for the Jubilee 2025. This Jubilee aims to restore a new rebirth that we all perceive as urgent. The motto of the upcoming Jubilee, “Pilgrims of Hope”, invites us to find hope in the midst of sadness and suffering.
Faith as a source of hope
Faith is a powerful tool to face the sadness and difficulties of illness. As the Pope says in Evangelii gaudium, the joy of faith can be awakened as a secret but firm confidence, even in the midst of the worst anxieties. It is important to remember that faith connects us to a greater hope and helps us overcome difficult times.
Prayer as support in times of illness
Prayer is a great school of hope and must be at the center of the celebration of Easter of the Sick. Praying with the sick and praying for the sick is a way of reminding them that they are not alone or abandoned, and that their lives have a purpose. Prayer connects us to the presence of Christ, who is our living and transparent hope.
conclusion
The Sick 2024 Campaign reminds us of the importance of giving hope in the midst of sadness. Faith and prayer are powerful tools to face illness and overcome difficult times. On this day, we invite everyone to be “Pilgrims of Hope” and to find comfort and confidence in our faith.