Visiting Infirmed
How many sick and elderly people are living at home and waiting for a visit! The ministry of consolation is a task for every baptized person, mindful of the word of Jesus: “I was sick and you visited me” (Mt 25:36). (Pope Francis, January 4, 2022)
Message of His Holiness Pope Francis for the Thirtieth World Day of the Sick.
What does the Church say?
The virtue of visiting the sick is an act of great humanity and mercy. Jesus himself showed a special concern for the sick during his public ministry, as seen in the numerous encounters he had with them and his healing power[1]. Visiting the sick is a way of imitating Christ and sharing in his compassionate love for those who suffer[1]. It is an opportunity to make the sick feel less alone and to provide them with companionship, which can be a great source of comfort and healing[1]. By visiting the sick, we can offer them a smile, a caress, or a handshake, simple gestures that can make a significant difference in their lives[1].
Visiting the sick is also an important aspect of family life. In times of illness, family bonds can grow stronger as family members come together to support and care for the sick[2]. It is crucial to teach children from a young age about solidarity in times of illness, as it helps them develop sensitivity and compassion towards the suffering of others[2]. The experience of caring for a sick loved one can be a school of life for children, teaching them important values and virtues[2].
Moreover, visiting the sick is not only a duty but also a source of personal growth and wisdom. When we take the time to touch the suffering of others, we receive much more than what we give[3]. The poor and the sick have a hidden wisdom that can help us discover unexpected values[3]. Through visiting the sick, we can learn to appreciate the fragility and vulnerability of the human person and respond with respect and care[4]. It is a contemplative gaze that beholds the wonder of life, embracing it as a gift and finding in illness the readiness to surrender to the Lord of life[4].
In summary, the virtue of visiting the sick is an act of great humanity, mercy, and compassion. It allows us to imitate Christ, provide companionship and comfort to the sick, strengthen family bonds, and grow in wisdom and maturity[1][2][3][4].
[1] [General Audience of 9 November 2016: 35. To visit the sick and the imprisoned ] https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/audiences/2016/documents/papa-francesco_20161109_udienza-generale.html[2] [General Audience of 10 June 2015: The family - 18. Family and illness ] https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/audiences/2015/documents/papa-francesco_20150610_udienza-generale.html
[3] [Christus vivit 171] https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/apost_exhortations/documents/papa-francesco_esortazione-ap_20190325_christus-vivit.html
[4] [Samaritanus bonus I] https://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/congregations/cfaith/documents/rc_con_cfaith_doc_20200714_samaritanus-bonus_en.html