Each year, on February 11, the Church celebrates the "World Day of the Sick." On this day in particular, we focus on the redemptive value of human suffering and on the important role of those who are sick in the work of spreading the Gospel. Whether your cross is your own illness, loneliness or pain, or that of a loved one, you have a special bond with Christ Crucified and also with the suffering people of the Missions and those who serve them. As you pray and offer your crosses, in union with Christ, as you pray and sacrifice on behalf of all who serve in the missionary work of the Church, may God in his mercy bless you with peace.

Read the Holy Father's Message for World Day of the Sick