A day for the sick

'You are not alone,' Pope tells those suffering from sickness

A sister of the Sacred Heart comforts a patient in hospital in Wau, South Sudan. CNS photo / Paul Jeffrey.

Catholic News Agency has a story relating that ahead of the World Day of the Sick, Pope Benedict XVI expressed his closeness to those with illnesses and reaffirmed that Jesus Christ's sufferings give meaning to their own.

"You are not alone, separated, abandoned or useless. You have been called by Christ and are His living and transparent image," said the Pope, quoting Pope Paul VI's words from the Second Vatican Council.

The 21st World Day of the Sick will be celebrated Feb. 11 on the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes. Pope Benedict released his message for the day Jan. 8.

For full story see The B.C. Catholic website.